T’puram: Union minister of state Suresh Gopi visited G V Raja Stadium as part of a preliminary review of sports infrastructure in the context of India’s Olympic preparations. The visit followed his earlier discussions with Union sports minister Mansukh Mandaviya on developing and upgrading sports facilities in Kerala.University vice-chancellor Mohan Kunnummal and syndicate finance standing panel member R S Sasikumar accompanied him. The team assessed the stadium’s existing facilities and the scope for redevelopment.According to the university authorities, a proposal to upgrade the stadium to international standards is under consideration. The preliminary estimate is around Rs 100 crore, but the cost, funding pattern and timeline will be finalised only after preparation and approval of a detailed project report.The initial proposal includes an international-standard synthetic athletics track, upgraded galleries, parking and related facilities. The design is also expected to allow the buildings and galleries to be used for university sports and other activities.Built in 1937 as part of Travancore University, the stadium is among the university’s longstanding sports facilities. With the Greenfield Stadium at Kariavattom largely used for cricket, the university is examining whether G V Raja Stadium can accommodate athletics and other major sporting events.The proposed work remains at an early stage. A detailed project report will examine land availability, existing structures, spectator access, parking, athlete facilities and compliance with relevant sporting standards. Any redevelopment will require administrative, technical, and financial approvals from the authorities concerned.
