Madikeri: Work has commenced to replace the synthetic hockey turf at Ponnampet, a key venue for hockey in Kodagu district. The new turf field is being developed within KPS premises under Department of Youth Empowerment and Sports (DYES).Synthetic turf was originally installed at Ponnampet ground in 2014. Since then, the venue has hosted numerous events, including hockey tournaments, the district hockey league, and competitions at school, college, and club levels. However, the turf installed in 2014 had fallen into disrepair.Additionally, water stagnation in certain areas of the ground was causing problems. In light of this, Virajpet MLA AS Ponnanna took a keen interest in the matter and facilitated the renovation of the ground. Although the initial plan was to repair the damaged turf, the MLA decided to install a completely new one, as the existing surface had become unsuitable. Consequently, a plan was formulated through DYES, and the project to install the new turf has now been launched.Previously, a green synthetic turf had been installed at the venue. The new turf being installed now will be blue. This turf is being imported from the Netherlands.Vismayi, assistant director of DYES, said Kodava Family Hockey Festival is scheduled to be held in Ponnampet next year, and the new field will be ready in time for the event.
