Bhubaneswar owns South Asia's Largest Indoor Athletics Stadium - A Beauty to Behold

In the world of sports, India is emerging as a force across the sectors. And among the metropolis of India, the biggest upsurge belongs to Bhubaneswar.

The latest to Bhubaneswar's feather is their Indoor Athletic Stadium, which has become the buzz of the city.

The Odisha Capital has been making rapid and giant leaps towards becoming a sporting hub of India. From Hockey and football to Athletics, Bhubaneswar is slowly but steadily fabricating the biggest sports facilities in the country.

Hockey has found its home in Odisha. The amazing edifice of Bhubaneswar and Rourkela has provided a massive platform for Indian Hockey, and now the Indoor Athletic Stadium adds to the state's glory.

Under the sagacious guidance of Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, Odisha has positioned itself as a beacon for sports development and promotion, channelling substantial investment into world-class sports infrastructure.

Bhubaneswar Indoor Athletic Stadium

The state's commitment to nurturing sporting excellence is palpably reflected in the sprawling Kalinga Sports Complex, which spans a grand 80 acres and serves as a nucleus for sports and high-performance centers. The complex has recently been augmented by the impressive Indoor Athletics Stadium, a testament to Odisha's dedication to fostering athletic prowess.

South Asia's Premier Indoor Athletics Facility

The newly minted Indoor Athletics Centre stands out as South Asia's premier indoor athletic stadium, boasting a 200-meter athletic track that caters to a 2,000-spectator seating gallery. This state-of-the-art facility is not only a marvel in terms of scale but also in the diversity of its features, which include an extended 80-meter plus a 20-meter running track, designated zones for pole vault, shot put, and high and long jump events, as well as a weight training center. The stadium is designed to accommodate players comfortably, offering 60 twin-sharing rooms and lounges for use during competitions.

Infrastructure Geared for International Events

Accompanying the athletic provisions are facilities that are integral to hosting international events, such as a broadcast room, press box, and various lounges. The Indoor Athletics Centre has earned the prestigious Category 1 certification from World Athletics, affirming its compliance with standards regarding infrastructure, facilities, and technical capabilities. The newly formed structure thus can be the abode of future athletics events on national and global scale.

Athlete-Centric Accommodations and Training

The facility is meticulously designed to support athletes throughout the year, offering an uninterrupted environment for training and competition. It is well-equipped to host national and international athletic events, thereby significantly contributing to the advancement of athletics in India.

Additionally, the center includes residential accommodations that can house over 100 athletes, ensuring they have access to full-time coaching and a conducive environment for honing their skills.

Constructed with an investment of Rs 120 crore, the Indoor Athletics Stadium is poised for its grand inauguration in February 2024. This monumental project not only solidifies Odisha's reputation as a sports-centric state but also marks a significant milestone in India's journey to becoming a dominant force in the world of athletics.