By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Aug 1: The newly renovated and upgraded JN Stadium, which has been undergoing a massive overhaul for two years, is finally ready and will host its first match on Friday with the inauguration of the prestigious Durand Cup tournament here.
A glittering opening ceremony is planned for the Durand Cup, which will kick off with the first match between Shillong Lajong FC and Tribhuvan Army FC. The opener is already sold out, with thousands of spectators expected to fill the stadium to watch the exciting match.
Free bus rides
In view of the opening ceremony, the state government has arranged for 18 public buses to operate through local areas. These buses will run on a first-come, first-served basis. While match-day tickets are required, the ride is free of cost.
Each ticket admits one person only and must be produced to avail of the bus ride, including for children. The buses will also offer return rides after the match, with boarding from designated parking spots.
The bus service will start at 11 am, ferrying passengers eager to watch the match at JN Stadium at 11:30 am. The stadium gates will open to the public at 12:30 pm.
Parking and transportation
The public is encouraged to consider carpooling, using public transportation, or walking to the event. Parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis at the SRGT parking lot, with additional spaces available at various designated spots around the stadium.
Stadium upgrades
The renovation work on JN Stadium began around two years ago, and it now boasts a seating capacity of approximately 20,000 spectators, with an international standard field of play.
It even earned praise from Lieutenant General Sanjay Malik, General Officer Commanding 101 Area, for its international standards.
The project was divided into two packages.
Package 1, implemented by Badri Rai and Company at a cost of Rs 35 crore, included the extension of the North and South stands, external façade work, field of play, and track work.
Package 2, executed by local entrepreneur IDC at a cost of Rs 18 crore, involved interior works in the stands, renovation of different rooms, and other external development works.
A professional from Dharamshala, instrumental in constructing the iconic cricket stadium in Tura, was hired for the upgrade work.
The stadium, which previously had around 1,000 bucket seats, now features approximately 17,000 bucket seats. While the ground is fully ready to host football matches, a few minor works in the stadium are expected to be completed in the next two months.