Paljor stadium to get world class artificial turf

Gangtok, Jan 11, (PTI):

The Paljor stadium here would have a world class artificial turf very soon, a top Sikkim Sports and Youth Affairs department official said here today.


A US-based firm, Field Turf Tarkett and Great Sports Infra Private Limited of India are carrying out work to lay an artificial turf at the Paljor stadium which is scheduled to be completed by March 31 this year at a total project cost of Rs 3.77 crore, Sikkim Sports and
Youth Affairs department secretary Karma P Bhutia said.

Work for laying the Field Turf Outdoor Series grade of Astroturf of 65 mm thickness - the same quality as the one laid at Yuba Bharati Krirangan at Salt Lake, Kolkata started on Janaury one.

The artificial turf selected for Paljor Stadium was manufactured in Georgia, USA, and is virtually maintenance free and comes with a warranty of eight years, the secretary said.

Bhutia pointed out that the Salt Lake stadium turf has already got a 2 star approval rating from FIFA. The rating for the Paljor stadium turf will be attested after FIFA or AFC inspects the playing surface.

He said once the artificial turf is laid, the Paljor stadium ground can be used extensively for football and other sports without any damage to the surface, providing a guaranteed playing field for at least 6 days a week.

The secretary said that the department is also in process of taking up the Bhaichung Stadium in Namchi for development into a world-class facility and has similar plans for the Kyongsa Ground in Gyalshing and the Public Ground at Mangan.

He further informed that directives have also been received from the Chief Minister to set up an archery academy in South Sikkim.

He also informed that taekwondo, wushu, boxing, archery, badminton and other medal prospects sport will be given priority in terms of infrastructure development, coaching and equipment in the state