PM Modi lays foundation stone of the International Cricket Stadium in Varanasi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday laid the foundation stone of the International Cricket Stadium in his parliamentary constituency Varanasi. The project is expected to cost approximately Rs 450 crores and will be able to accommodate 30,000 spectators.

The thematic architecture of this stadium draws inspiration from Lord Shiva, with designs developed for crescent-shaped roof covers, trident-shaped floodlights, ghat steps-based seating, and Bilvipatra-shaped metallic sheets on the facade.

The Prime Minister said the whole world is getting connected with India through cricket and new countries are now coming forward to play cricket.


He further said the joy 0f visiting Kashi is "unparalleled."

Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar, BCCI president Roger Binny and BCCI secretary Jay Shah apart from Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath were present during the event.

The Uttar Pradesh government has spent Rs 121 crore on land acquisition for the construction of the stadium.

The international-level cricket stadium is likely to be completed by the end of next year, media reports had said earlier.

"In Varanasi, a stadium is under construction with the help of the Smart City Mission of the Central Government. This is the third International stadium of Uttar Pradesh and the first to be constructed under the supervision of BCCI. It will provide a platform to the cricket enthusiasts of east Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. I would like to thank BCCI and PM Modi for giving this gift to UP," said Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath.


The total site area under development is 30.67 acres.

The scope of work also includes finishes and allied MEP services along with external development within the site premises, it added.

The stadium will be operated by the Board of Control for Cricket in India and under a long-term lease agreement, the BCCI will assume responsibility for the stadium’s operation and management, ToI had reported.

India is set to host the ICC ODI World Cup this year in October to November and matches will be played across the country. While The tournament promises to deliver a thrilling spectacle as 10 formidable teams compete for the coveted title, the stadiums hosting the games have undergone enhancements as well.