Ludhaina, Feb 6: Ludhiana is undergoing a significant transformation into a premier sports hub with the Punjab government initiating projects worth Rs 10 crore to modernize athletic facilities. A centerpiece of this development is a state-of-the-art indoor volleyball stadium at SCD Government College, which officials noted will be the first facility of its kind in North India.
The new volleyball arena, being constructed at a cost of Rs 3.5 crore, aims to transition the sport from open-air grounds to a professional indoor environment. Designed with modern amenities, the complex will feature wooden flooring, soundproof halls, advanced lighting, and dedicated spaces for a gymnasium and conferences.
Deputy Commissioner Himanshu Jain said the industrial hub requires these upgrades to provide better avenues for the local population. “To channelise the youth towards sports, we are focusing on strengthening facilities. Our motive is to provide maximum opportunities to sports lovers,” Jain said, adding that many projects are slated for completion within six months.
The initiative follows a period of sustained success for local athletes despite previously limited resources. Gurjot Singh, a national-level coach and member of the Ludhiana Volleyball Association, mentioned that the college has produced approximately 100 national players over the last decade. Singh noted that the rural youth, who make up the majority of the sporting talent, are particularly optimistic about the new infrastructure.
“Nearly 90 per cent of our players come from rural backgrounds. They are elated about the upcoming stadium, which will have a wooden floor, soundproof hall, proper lighting, gymnasium and conference room,” Singh said.
Beyond the volleyball project, the administration is redeveloping several other sites. Plans include the renovation of Shastri Badminton Hall, a new ground for throwing events at SCD Government College, and the expansion of the weightlifting center at GNN Stadium. A synthetic lawn tennis court and improvements to the Rakh Bagh Judo Centre are also part of the broader agenda. Tenders for these works were processed in January to ensure a time-bound execution of the upgrades.
