Astroturf worth Rs 7.79 crore laid in Nehru Stadium, Gurugram

Gurugram, March 29 (IANS) The dream of hockey players in Gurugram to play on the Astroturf field is becoming a reality with the installation of a new Astroturf at Nehru Stadium located in Civil Lines at a cost of Rs 7.79 crore.
Preparations for the international-level Astroturf field are underway to meet the set targets, Deputy Commissioner Gurugram Nishant Kumar Yadav inspected the site and provided necessary instructions to officials and the construction agency.

The construction of the Astroturf ground began on March 14 last year and is now near completion, with some finishing touches remaining. To prevent waterlogging during the rainy season, the existing ground has been raised by about two and a half feet, ensuring the durability of the new Astroturf.

The Deputy Director of the Sports Department, Giriraj Yadav, highlighted that the Astroturf is 91.40 meters long and 55 meters wide, with 6 sprinklers covering a distance of 45 to 50 meters. A water tank has been positioned nearby to provide constant irrigation, with sprinklers capable of watering the entire field in 7 to 10 minutes.

The introduction of the new Astroturf at Nehru Stadium is expected to revive the golden era of hockey in Haryana, particularly in Gurugram. District Sports Officer Ramnivas shared that the field is equipped with seating for 35 to 40 players in three directions and a protective iron net around its perimeter, catering to the needs of up to 80 hockey players currently.

With a decrease in practicing hockey players from 150 to 80 due to the ongoing construction, the number is anticipated to rise after the completion of the new Astroturf. The rejuvenation of hockey in Gurugram is poised to elevate the game and foster a new wave of talent in the sport, enhancing the prospects for international success.