5T Chairman In Sambalpur: Reviews Various Developmental Works, Plays Cricket With Youngsters

Sambalpur: As per the direction of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, Chairman 5T and Nabin Odisha, Kartik Pandian made an early morning review of various developmental works in Sambalpur district.

During his visit, at early morning at 6 AM, Kartik Pandian flagged off the First Mahanadi Half Marathon in Sambalpur. More than 4000 runners participated in this marathon event under various categories. Speaking on the occasion, Kartik Pandian said, “Sambalpur has good sports culture and to further develop the talent, Chief Minister has directed to provide the best of facilities. Recently, the indoor stadium in Burla, constructed at a cost of Rs 27 crore was inaugurated. The foundation stones were also laid for the Sambalpur Football Academy and the Sports complex in Sambalpur University including Hockey stadium and indoor sports facilities at a total cost of Rs 100 crore”. He further mentioned that the Chief Minister has directed to construct a new football stadium and upgrade the VSS Cricket Stadium into a modern stadium. These stadiums will be taken up with an approximate cost of over Rs 350 crore. This will be a major boost for sports development in the district.

Kartik Pandian visited the VSS Stadium and interacted with the players. Kartik Pandian was a sportsperson himself and used to study in Sports hostel. He shared his experience with the players. He played cricket with the players and players were excited and motivated to see Kartik Pandian playing with them in the field.

Later, Kartik Pandian discussed with the Director and senior doctors and staff regarding development of the Veer Surendra Sai Institute of Medical Science and Research (VIMSAR). In the first phase, it was decided that the Mother and Child Healthcare facilities (O&G, Paediatrics) will be given priority with a 70-bed hospital. The hostel campus will be taken up for development along with sports complex. The residences for the staff will also be prioritised. In the initial phase, the facilities will be developed with project cost of Rs 1000 crore. A master plan will be prepared for overall development of the campus in various phases, as per availability of land.

Kartik Pandian reviewed the project for development of birthplace of Veer Surendra Sai at Khinda. He directed the officials to expedite the work progress.

The 5T Chairman visited Maa Samaleswari Temple and interacted with the pilgrims and took their feedback on the new facilities. The pilgrims expressed their happiness regarding development under Samlei project.