Cricket tournaments revitalise Nehru Stadium in Hubballi

HUBBALLI: Nehru Stadium, the sole playing ground in the city centre, is witnessing a surge in popularity after an extended period of inactivity. Local cricket enthusiasts, community groups, and organisations are actively conducting numerous cricket events and tournaments at the venue. The installation of lighting infrastructure by municipal authorities has enabled tournament organisers to utilise the stadium during evening hours as well.
From Jan until now, the stadium has hosted 16 cricket tournaments and various sports events, with bookings extending through May. Over the past three months, the venue attracted hundreds of sports enthusiasts, including women, students, and young people, who participated in sporting activities here.
The stadium became a hub of sporting activities, hosting light tennis and hard tennis ball matches from morning till evening. Local cricket clubs are showing keen interest in conducting tournaments, bringing together teams from different parts of the city. The well-maintained grounds and improved facilities are attracting both amateur and professional players.
The HDMC, which is managing the stadium, implemented a systematic booking system to accommodate the growing demand. Weekend slots are particularly sought after, with multiple matches scheduled throughout the day. Adequate seating arrangements and refreshment facilities near the stadium have made it convenient for spectators to enjoy the games.
The success of recent tournaments have prompted organisers to plan more events in the coming months. The stadium's central location has made it easily accessible to players and spectators alike. The renewed interest in cricket activities has created a positive sporting atmosphere in the city.
Umesh Dushi, a social activist, emphasised that HDMC officials need to install drinking water facilities and washrooms on the premises. The stadium receives hundreds of visitors daily, who currently depend on hotels outside for basic amenities. He stressed that Nehru Stadium in Hubballi, being the sole playing ground available, should remain accessible every day rather than only during scheduled events.
Girish Talwar, zonal assistant commissioner, Zone 6, highlighted the increasing popularity of Nehru Stadium. The venue has been hosting four to five events monthly in recent times, with visitors particularly keen on utilising the evening lighting facilities. He noted that from last month, they have come up with fixed charges for evening lighting usage. The daily rental fee for Nehru Stadium stands at Rs 2,360, inclusive of service charges, while the lighting facilities are available at Rs 2,500 per hour.