Kerala Cricket Association set to launch Rs 30 Crore Palakkad Sports Hub

In a significant boost to Kerala's sports infrastructure, the Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) is set to commence construction of its ultra-modern Palakkad Sports Hub on February 27.

The groundbreaking ceremony, scheduled for 5 PM behind Akaththara NSS Engineering College, underscores the region's growing sports ambitions amid rising demand for world-class facilities.

KCA set for High-Profile Inauguration

Minister for Revenue and Housing M.B. Rajesh will officiate the foundation laying, with Minister for Co-operation V.N. Vasavan as chief guest. KCA President Adv. Sreejith V. Nair will chair proceedings, attended by V.K. Sreekandan MP, A. Prabhakaran MLA, Palakkad Municipal Chairman P. Smithesh, Malabar Devaswom Board President O.K. Vasu, Women's Premier League Chairman Jayesh George, and KCA Secretary Vinod S. Kumar. Former Palakkad DCA officials, temple trustees, and local leaders like Akaththara Panchayat President P.A. Bindu will also participate, with honors for key contributors.

Expansive Facilities on Leased Land

Built on 21 acres from the Akaththara Sri Chathankulangara Bhagavati Temple Trust under a 33-year lease, the ₹30 crore multi-sport hub features two cricket grounds with floodlights, a clubhouse, swimming pool, basketball, and football pitches. The temple will be compensated with Rs 21.35 lakh yearly revenue and Rs 10 lakh security deposit, plus hiring priority for locals. Named jointly after the temple and KCA, it promises economic upliftment.

Phased Rollout and Long-Term Impact

Initiated in 2018 under Madras Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Act procedures, delays from COVID pushed timelines, but phase one (ground, pavilion, sprinklers) targets year-end finish, phase two by April 2027.

"This will revolutionize district sports, uniting disciplines and nurturing rural talents for international standards," said Nair. Secretary Vinod S. Kumar called it a "milestone for Kerala's infrastructure," aiding future stars.

The hub positions Palakkad on Kerala's sports map, fostering jobs and excellence across cricket and beyond. Kerala currently have a solitary sports hub in Trivandrum, which is at the Greenfield International Stadium.