Stalled dreams; Bolukatta Indoor Stadium in Kasaragod remains incomplete even after a decade

Badiyadukka: A decade after launching works on the project, the construction of the much-anticipated indoor stadium at Bolukatta remains incomplete.

The project, which was first included in the 2015–16 development programme, saw initial work worth ₹24 lakh during the first phase. In the following year, an office room, bathroom and a sheet-covered compound wall were constructed at a cost of Rs.11 lakh.

Though an additional fund of ₹10 lakh was sanctioned in 2022–23 for completing the stadium, the works are yet to begin. Of this, ₹5 lakh each was earmarked for flooring and electrification. However, authorities claim that technical clearance has not been granted since the two components were funded under separate allocations and this issue has stalled the project's progress for the past two years.

The stadium was envisioned to meet the athletic needs of youth in the region. Despite strong demand from local youngsters and earlier plans to complete the project in collaboration with youth clubs, the facility remains in limbo.

There are currently no indoor stadiums across the panchayats of Badiyadukka, Pulikkai, Kumbadaaje or Enmakaje. Local residents have strongly protested the prolonged delay, pointing out the setback it causes to sports development in the region.

Speaking on the matter, local ward member B Balakrishna Shetty said efforts to complete the indoor stadium were progressing fast, and the remaining work would be completed as soon as technical approval is received. “ While several projects are being initiated for the elderly, there has been a lack of development schemes focused on youth. That’s why we are committed to completing this project in a way that truly benefits the younger generation, ” he said.