The Maharashtra Cabinet has cleared three major proposals to expand sports infrastructure across the state, covering a tennis project in Mumbai, an upgrade of the Baramati sports complex and a new international cricket stadium in Kolhapur. The decisions were taken soon after the Model Code of Conduct for the Zilla Parishad and Panchayat Samiti elections concluded.
Tennis Facilities in Andheri
The Cabinet approved the allotment of around two acres of land owned by MHADA in the Kole Kalyan area of Andheri to the MahaTennis Foundation. The plot, originally reserved as a recreational ground, will be developed jointly with MHADA to establish tennis infrastructure aimed at promoting the sport in Mumbai and its suburbs.
As the MahaTennis Foundation is a non-profit body, the Cabinet sanctioned Rs 10 crore as equity support through MHADA to facilitate project implementation.
Baramati Sports Complex Expansion
The Cabinet also sanctioned Rs 75.13 crore for Phase III development of the District Sports Complex at Katphal in Baramati, which spans 80,000 square metres. The expansion will include a pavilion, swimming pool, skating rink, archery range, basketball court and other facilities.
Approval for release of funds has been granted, enabling the expansion of multi-sport infrastructure in the region.
Kolhapur International Cricket Stadium
In Kolhapur district, the Cabinet approved the free allotment of 12 hectares of government land at Vikaswadi in Karveer taluka for construction of an international-standard cricket stadium. The land will be transferred without premium or revenue charges to the School Education and Sports Department with full possession rights.
Authorities stated that no direct government funding will be provided for stadium construction and the land must be used only for the approved purpose. After transfer, agreements will be executed to make the site available to the Kolhapur District Cricket Association as per government norms.
The decisions aim to strengthen sports infrastructure from grassroots to competitive levels across Maharashtra.
Source: The Free Press Journal
