Union Sports Minister M.S. Gill confident

After visiting the Indira Gandhi Stadium complex here on Monday, Union Sports Minister M.S. Gill expressed confidence that the gymnastics, wrestling and cycling venues for the 2010 Commonwealth Games would be ready sooner than later.

There had been a lot of speculation over the timely completion of the cycling velodrome, construction of which had begun only in January this year following several technical disputes.

So far, the main structure of the velodrome has been erected and the pre-fabricated indoor hall, to be fitted into the main structure, is being readied at a different place.

“The cycling velodrome is impressive, God willing we will finish it in time. People should be patient,” Gill told the media.

Praising the Sports Authority of India (SAI) and CPWD officials for the decent pace of the construction work, the Minister said, “In spite of the time loss (after India got the Games in 2003), we will complete the work in good time.”

“Maximum of the work will be finished by December (this year). At best, it will be finished by January or February next year,” he added.

Gill was impressed with the architecture of the structures. “These are mighty complex engineering and architectural structures and are amazing to look at. I have not seen such Stadia anywhere in the country. These are no less in comparison to that in Beijing,” he said.

The total cost of the project, constructed over an area of 80 acre, is Rs. 675 crore and the target date for completion is March 31 next year. — Sports Reporter