The Meghalaya Sports and Youth Affairs Minister, Shakliar Warjri, has issued a directive for the immediate renovation of the Ampati stadium turf. Following significant delays in the ongoing infrastructure development work.
The decision came during his inspection visit to Ampati on Thursday. Where he reviewed the progress of the under-construction stadium and raised concerns about project mismanagement and lagging timelines.
Minister Flags Serious Concerns Over Delays
Addressing media and local officials, Warjri said the Ampati sports facility is crucial for the promotion of sports in South West Garo Hills and delays in its completion are unacceptable.
“We must provide our athletes with world-class infrastructure. The condition of the turf and slow pace of work is a major setback. I have instructed for an immediate overhaul of the turf and asked the contractor to expedite all pending civil works,” he said.
Renovation Work to Begin Immediately
The minister directed the engineering wing of the Meghalaya State Sports Council to start turf renovation and ground preparation within the next 48 hours. He also instructed that necessary materials be procured locally to avoid further delays.
Officials from the Public Works Department (PWD), Sports Council, and the district administration have been asked to submit a revised timeline and ensure weekly progress reports.
“The stadium must be completed before the monsoon ends so we can schedule state-level matches and youth sports events here,” Warjri said.
Local Athletes Voice Support
Local sports associations and aspiring athletes in Ampati welcomed the minister’s move. Many expressed concern that the long-delayed project had discouraged youth participation in sports and deprived the region of opportunities to host events.
“Our youth are passionate about football and athletics, but we lack proper infrastructure. Moreover, this stadium is our hope. We are happy that the minister has stepped in,” said John Marak. He’s local coach with the Garo Hills Football Association.
Stadium to Host Upcoming Sporting Events
The Ampati stadium, once completed, is expected to serve as a key venue for district and state-level sports events. Including football tournaments, athletic meets, and school competitions.
The Sports Department aims to make it a model sports facility in western Meghalaya, complete with synthetic turf, seating arrangements, changing rooms, and floodlights.
The minister also assured that funds under the Khelo India program and State Infrastructure Development Fund (SIDF) will be used to complete the project without financial hindrances.
Previous Delays Under Scrutiny
Officials admitted that the project had faced repeated interruptions due to weather, supply issues, and administrative lapses. The turf laid earlier developed cracks and uneven patches, prompting the need for a complete redo.
The minister emphasized accountability and warned that contractors who miss revised deadlines will face penalties. The District Sports Officer has been assigned to supervise the work directly.
Boosting Sports in Meghalaya
The move aligns with the state government’s wider focus on enhancing grassroots sports infrastructure. Over the past year, several initiatives have been launched. To nurture young talent in both rural and urban areas.
Warjri noted that sports development is not just about buildings. But, about creating a culture of participation, opportunity, and professional growth for athletes.
Call to Action
Residents of Ampati and nearby areas are encouraged to take pride in the facility and support ongoing development efforts.
To stay updated on sports infrastructure projects and youth initiatives, visit the Meghalaya Sports and Youth Affairs Department website.
