By A Correspondent
Patna: Today, a significant milestone was achieved for cricket in Bihar as the Bihar Cricket Association (BCA) successfully secured the Moinul Haq Stadium after a decade-long effort. The transfer of the stadium’s land, valued at Rs 650 crore, to the BCA was made possible thanks to the historic decision of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. This momentous event was marked by the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Bihar Government and the BCA.
Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary thanked the Chief Minister for the decision and commended BCA President Rakesh Kumar Tiwari for his role in facilitating the agreement. Chaudhary also praised Tiwari for informing BCCI Secretary Jai Shah about the funding approval for transforming Moinul Haq Stadium into an international-level stadium and sporting complex. He urged the BCA to complete the necessary work in two months to allow for the laying of the foundation stone in the new year, with the presence of either the Prime Minister or Home Minister of India. Chaudhary also announced that the government would waive off the Rs 37 crore registration fee, further encouraging the BCA to foster a strong sports culture in Bihar.
The revamped stadium will feature seating for 40,000 spectators, 76 corporate boxes, 250 VIP boxes, and a sporting complex that includes a badminton court, volleyball court, swimming pool, five-star hotel, player hostels, restaurants, and a clubhouse. Urban Development Minister Nitin Nabin highlighted that the stadium would not only benefit cricketers but would also boost tourism in the region. He expressed hopes that within three years, international cricket teams would be seen playing at the upgraded facility.
Bihar’s Sports Minister Surendra Mehta lauded the project as a transformative achievement for the state’s sporting sector. Principal Secretary of the Sports Department, B Rajendra, explained that the MoU involves a long-term lease of 30 years, with the BCA required to pay a nominal fee of one rupee per year for the first seven years. After this period, 50% of the profits, after deductions for expenses and taxes, will be shared with the Bihar Government.
The MoU was formally signed by Sports Director Mahendra Kumar on behalf of the Bihar Government and BCA President Rakesh Kumar Tiwari. The event saw several dignitaries honoured with bouquets, mementos, and shawls, recognising their contributions to the project.
At the conclusion of the ceremony, BCA President Tiwari expressed his gratitude and assured that the BCA would meet the government’s expectations for the development of the Moinul Haq Stadium. Representatives from district associations and BCA officials were present to witness the historic event.
