Bhubaneswar: Odisha is adding another jewel to its growing sports infrastructure landscape with the construction of the OPTCL Sports Arena at the OPTCL Colony in Bhoinagar, Bhubaneswar. Designed as a world-class multi-sport and recreation hub, the ₹15-crore complex will include an Olympic-standard swimming pool, badminton and tennis courts, volleyball court, jogging track, landscaped greens, and modern spectator facilities.
The foundation stone for the arena was laid on October 23 by Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, who also heads the Energy and Agriculture & Farmers’ Empowerment departments, in the presence of Sports and Youth Services Minister Suryabanshi Suraj.
Funded entirely through Odisha Power Transmission Corporation Limited’s (OPTCL) internal resources, the arena will cover 8,225 square metres (2.03 acres) and is aimed at promoting sports, fitness, and community engagement among employees and residents of the OPTCL colony.
“The OPTCL Sports Arena symbolizes our dedication to nurturing the well-being of employees in Odisha’s power sector and extending its benefits to the larger community,” said Deputy CM Singh Deo. “A healthy and active workforce is the foundation of a progressive organization.”
Sports Minister Suryabanshi Suraj praised the initiative as a model example of corporate contribution to Odisha’s sporting ecosystem. “The OPTCL project shows how public sector organizations can help expand access to quality sports facilities, foster physical fitness, and strengthen community ties,” he said.
The facility is expected to host training sessions, recreational games, and community sporting events, further enriching Bhubaneswar’s reputation as India’s emerging sports capital.
OPTCL, a leading entity in the state’s power transmission sector, employs more than 2,700 staff and houses over 300 families in its colony. The new sports arena is envisioned to become a vibrant center for athletic, fitness, and social activities, serving both employees and the local community.
The ceremony was attended by former MLA Priyadarshi Mishra, Vishal Kumar Dev, Principal Secretary, Energy and Electronics & IT Department; Bhaskar Jyoti Sarma, CMD, OPTCL; Jagannath Pradhan, social worker; and senior officials from the Energy Department and Odisha’s power sector.
With this addition, Bhubaneswar continues to lead Odisha’s sports infrastructure expansion, complementing major projects such as the Kalinga Stadium complex, Rourkela’s Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium, and numerous grassroots sports centers across the state.
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