Kochi gets new cricket stadium, govt gives nod

Kochi is set to get its own international-standard cricket stadium after the Kerala government granted official permission for the project.

The land has been identified near Cochin International Airport in Chengamanad village of Aluva taluk. The Agriculture Department has already approved the conversion of 10.13 hectares of land for the stadium.

The approval was granted under Section 10(2) of the Kerala Conservation of Paddy Land and Wetland Act, 2008. The project has been classified as being for a “public purpose” based on the Kerala Sports Policy 2023, Kerala Sports Act 2025 and Kerala Sports Infrastructure Development Scheme 2025.

The government has also imposed strict conditions to ensure environmental protection and water conservation.

Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) president Sreejith V Nair described the decision as a landmark development. “The proposed stadium will provide world-class facilities for cricketers and fans. Hosting national and international matches will give a major boost to sports tourism and the state’s economy,” he said.

He also thanked former KCA president and current WPL chairman Jayesh George for securing BCCI approval for the project.

George said BCCI officials and members of its infrastructure committee would visit the proposed site soon. He added that ICC chairman Jay Shah had earlier visited the site during his visit to Kerala for an IPL auction and issued directions on the next steps.

KCA secretary Vinod S Kumar said the association would ensure that the construction is carried out in compliance with environmental norms.

The project will also include facilities for sports other than cricket, he said, while appealing for public support to ensure its successful completion.