Ahmedabad Stadiums’ 2036 Olympics Ascent: Five State-of-the-Art Venues
Ahmedabad is gearing up to bolster its bid for the 2036 Olympic Games with the construction of five new world-class stadiums. This ambitious project, approved by both the Indian government and the state government of Gujarat, aims to elevate Ahmedabad’s status as a global sporting hub. The Ahmedabad Urban Development Authority (Auda) has initiated the tender process for these state-of-the-art venues, including a football arena, two indoor arenas, an aquatic centre, and a tennis stadium. The grand plan has received widespread approval, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially declaring India’s bid for the 2036 Summer Olympics and 2030 Youth Olympics in October of the current year.
The Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Enclave
At the heart of this visionary undertaking lies the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Enclave, a 350-acre integrated precinct along the Sabarmati riverfront. This enclave, designed with the meticulous standards required for hosting Olympic events, is poised to play a pivotal role in India’s bid for the 2036 Olympics. Boasting a master plan that envisions not only competition venues but also comprehensive training facilities for various sports, the SVP Enclave is set to revolutionize the sporting landscape of Ahmedabad.
Ahmedabad Stadiums: The Five Grand Venues
- Football Arena (Capacity: 50,000): The centrepiece of the project is the Olympic-standard football arena with a seating capacity of 50,000. This venue aims to provide a world-class experience for both athletes and spectators, aligning with international standards for hosting marquee events.
- Indoor Arenas (Capacity: 18,000 and 10,000): Two indoor arenas are in the pipeline, accommodating 18,000 and 10,000 spectators, respectively. These versatile spaces will not only serve as competition venues but also as multi-purpose facilities capable of hosting various entertainment and business events.
- Aquatics Centre (Capacity: 12,000): The aquatic centre, with a capacity of 12,000, is designed to meet the stringent requirements of Olympic aquatic events. This facility will contribute significantly to Ahmedabad’s ability to host a diverse range of sporting competitions.
- Tennis Centre (Capacity: 10,000): A state-of-the-art tennis stadium with a capacity of 10,000 is set to grace the SVP Enclave. This facility aims to elevate the city’s tennis infrastructure and provide a world-class venue for national and international tournaments.
- Narendra Modi Stadium and Sabarmati Riverfront Makeover: The existing 132,000-seat Narendra Modi Stadium, which hosted the National Games of India in 2022, will be complemented by the new stadiums in the SVP Enclave. Additionally, the Sabarmati riverfront will transform, enhancing the overall aesthetics of the area and ensuring a seamless blend with the newly developed sports facilities.
Construction Timeline and Future Prospects
The Gujarat Olympic Planning and Infrastructure Corporation Limited (GOLYMPIC) has set an ambitious timeline for the project. Detailed design and implementation are expected to commence by October 2024, to complete the enclave by October 2027. This strategic planning reflects a commitment to timely execution, aligning with the urgency of India’s bid for the 2036 Olympics.
Ahmedabad’s pursuit of hosting the 2036 Olympics marks a historic chapter in the city’s evolution as a global sports destination. The Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Enclave, with its five grand stadiums, symbolizes not only a commitment to athletic excellence but also a vision for fostering community engagement and long-term development. As the project unfolds over the coming years, Ahmedabad is poised to emerge as a beacon of sporting prowess, leaving an indelible mark on the international stage.