Chandigarh: Punjab chief minister Bhagwant Mann on Friday directed all departments to ensure world-class arrangements for the Asian Cup Hockey tournament scheduled from Oct 27 to Nov 2, with a focus on seamless coordination, international-standard facilities, city beautification and hospitality.Chairing a review meeting, Mann said, “It will be ensured that this prestigious international sporting event becomes a landmark occasion in Punjab’s sporting history.” He directed all departments to work in close coordination and leave no stone unturned in providing world-class facilities to participating teams, officials, spectators and visitors.He also called for a statewide trophy tour and greater student participation to build public enthusiasm, asserting that Punjab must set new benchmarks in hosting international sporting events.Mann said the participation of leading hockey nations, including India, China, Malaysia, Japan, Bangladesh and South Korea, would place Punjab in the international sporting spotlight and provide an opportunity to showcase the state’s hospitality, infrastructure, sporting excellence and vibrant cultural traditions.The opening ceremony of the tournament will be held in Jalandhar on Oct 27, with matches scheduled from Oct 27 to Nov 2. Mann directed all departments concerned to complete preparations well in advance and ensure that the championship is organised with the professionalism expected of a major international sporting event.He directed officials to ensure that every visiting delegation receives a warm welcome and experiences the highest standards of hospitality throughout its stay. He emphasised that preparations must extend beyond the stadium to encompass the entire city, with particular attention to cleanliness, sanitation, beautification and public amenities.Mann directed the Jalandhar municipal corporation to undertake comprehensive cleanliness drives, improve sanitation, maintain public spaces and ensure that the city presents a clean, welcoming and attractive appearance to international visitors.
