Ed Sheeran concert on Feb 12
SHILLONG, Feb 5: With Ed Sheeran’s concert just around the corner in Shillong, the state government on Wednesday allayed apprehensions relating to any possible damage to the JN Stadium turf in Polo.
Stating that latest technology, which is tried and tested, is being used for the upcoming concert, Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh said that the same has already worked well across the country.
“We have a turf protector, the latest technology being used across the globe, and our turf is already being used by bands, including Coldplay. These are being hired by concert organisers across the country. So, if it has worked well in Mumbai, why should it not work well at JN Stadium,” said Lyngdoh.
Renovated at a cost of over Rs 50 crore, the JN Stadium has already earned praise for its upgraded facilities after successfully hosting the prestigious Durand Cup. However, concerns about the stadium’s turf arose after a section of the field was damaged during the Bryan Adams concert on December 10 last year.
According to sources, a grass protector was installed on the football turf during the concert, but a patch of the ground was still damaged. Efforts have since been made to restore the damaged patch.
Re-seeding has been carried out, fertilisers have been applied and grass has started to regrow.
Despite these recovery measures, the damaged turf is yet to completely heal, raising concerns about its readiness for upcoming events.
The immediate challenge is the upcoming clash between two major events at the JN Stadium.
The Indian Super League (ISL) is set to debut in Shillong, with NorthEast United FC hosting Mumbai City FC on February 7. Just five days later, British musician Ed Sheeran is scheduled to perform at the same venue on February 12.
Meanwhile, talking about the upcoming Ed Sheeran concert, Lyngdoh said a meeting will be held on Thursday.
“I will chair a high-level meeting on February 6. Officials of BookMyShow, the concert organiser, will be here for the next 3-4 days to ensure that all logistics are in place and whatever support which they require from the state government in terms of policing, security, medical facilities, clearance of road—all of these have been discussed in detail,” the Tourism Minister said.