Siliguri Indoor Stadium Overhaul: Siliguri’s once-neglected Deshbandhupara Indoor Stadium is finally getting the attention it deserves. With a state-level table tennis championship approaching in November, the Siliguri Municipal Corporation (SMC) has begun an ambitious renovation project aimed at reviving one of North Bengal’s most significant sports venues.
The renovation—backed by a budget of ₹1 crore—seeks to modernize the ageing infrastructure, enhance safety, and prepare the facility for large-scale sporting events. The project has become a symbol of the city’s renewed commitment to sporting excellence and civic development.
A Comeback Story for Siliguri’s Sporting Pride
Built in the 1990s, the Deshbandhupara Indoor Stadium once hosted a range of prestigious tournaments and cultural gatherings. However, years of neglect left the structure deteriorated and unfit for major events. During the pandemic, it was temporarily repurposed as a quarantine and health facility—a far cry from its glory days.
Now, Siliguri’s sports lovers have reason to cheer again. The SMC’s decision to overhaul the venue follows demands from local athletes, coaches, and sports associations who urged authorities to bring the facility back into active use.
Mayor Gautam Deb confirmed that the renovation work is progressing rapidly, stating, “We are committed to finishing the entire project before the end of October so that the stadium is ready for the upcoming state-level table tennis championship.”
For years, the lack of an updated indoor sports facility had limited Siliguri’s ability to host top-tier tournaments. The current project aims to change that by transforming the stadium into a multi-sport complex capable of accommodating both professional and community-level events.
Siliguri Indoor Stadium Overhaul: Key Upgrades in the Overhaul
The ₹1 crore modernization plan includes a variety of structural and functional improvements designed to bring the facility in line with current sporting standards:
- New Synthetic Flooring: A high-quality sports flooring system has been imported from Chandigarh to ensure superior performance and safety during the championship.
- Roof Replacement: The old, leaky roof is being completely replaced with durable, weather-resistant materials.
- Ventilation and Lighting: Modern ventilation systems and energy-efficient LED lights are being installed to improve visibility and air circulation.
- Anti-Bird Measures: Iron meshes will be fitted to prevent birds from entering the arena and causing disturbances during matches.
- Parking and Access Upgrades: A new parking area is being developed, with improved vehicle movement and entry points for players and spectators.
- Spectator Seating and Facilities: Seats are being refurbished, restrooms renovated, and new signage installed to enhance comfort and accessibility.
According to SMC engineers, 50% of the work has already been completed, and the final stages—including flooring installation and electrical fittings—are expected to finish in the coming weeks.
A Boost for Table Tennis and Beyond
The upcoming West Bengal State Table Tennis Championship will be the first major event to be hosted at the revamped stadium. Organizers expect participation from across the state, with matches spanning multiple categories—junior, sub-junior, and senior divisions.
Local players, many of whom have trained in makeshift facilities, are enthusiastic about finally competing in a professional-grade venue. Siliguri has long been a hub for table tennis talent, producing players who have represented West Bengal at national tournaments.
The revival of the stadium is expected to further strengthen this ecosystem, encouraging young athletes and providing local clubs a professional environment to train.
After the table tennis tournament, the SMC is reportedly planning to host a state-level badminton event, followed by inter-district volleyball and indoor cricket matches, effectively turning the facility into a year-round sports destination.
Challenges in Revamping the Facility
Despite progress, the renovation is not without its challenges:
- Tight Deadlines: With only weeks left before the tournament, completing all civil and electrical works on time remains a major concern.
- Limited Budget: ₹1 crore, while significant, is tight for a full structural and aesthetic overhaul, leaving little room for unexpected expenses.
- Long-Term Maintenance: Experts emphasize that upkeep will be key to ensuring the facility doesn’t fall back into disrepair.
- Weather Constraints: October rains could delay construction and painting work if not managed efficiently.
Still, the mayor remains optimistic, insisting that “this time, the focus is on lasting quality rather than quick fixes.”
Community and Economic Impact
The stadium’s revival goes beyond sports—it promises social and economic ripple effects for Siliguri.
Hosting state-level tournaments draws athletes, coaches, spectators, and media from across Bengal. This influx can boost the local economy through hotel stays, transportation, and food services. Local vendors and businesses near Deshbandhupara are already preparing for a surge in visitors during the November event.
Moreover, the upgraded venue will allow youth training camps, school sports meets, and talent scouting programs to operate on a larger scale, supporting Siliguri’s emergence as a sports education hub.
Civic Vision: Building Siliguri as a Sports City
Mayor Deb has reiterated that Siliguri’s long-term goal is to position itself as a “Sports Capital of North Bengal.” Alongside the indoor stadium project, the SMC has undertaken parallel efforts to upgrade outdoor facilities, including football grounds, athletics tracks, and public gyms.
The revival aligns with broader state government initiatives to expand grassroots sports infrastructure, especially in non-metro regions. By investing in multipurpose stadiums and community sports centers, the aim is to nurture athletic talent outside Kolkata and Darjeeling.
Officials also mentioned that after completion, the stadium would not be used for political or non-sporting events, ensuring that its primary function remains promoting athletics and youth engagement.
A Symbol of Resilience and Renewal
Siliguri’s indoor stadium story is also a tale of resilience. From being an emergency facility during the COVID-19 crisis to reclaiming its place as a sporting landmark, the transformation reflects the city’s determination to rebuild and progress.
As the first coats of paint dry and the new synthetic floors are rolled out, there’s a growing sense of anticipation among residents. For many, the echo of bouncing table tennis balls will symbolize more than a game—it will mark Siliguri’s return to the sporting map.
Looking Ahead: A New Era for Sports in North Bengal
Once the renovation is complete, Siliguri will not only gain a top-notch facility but also a renewed identity as a center for indoor sports in eastern India. The move could inspire similar initiatives in nearby towns like Jalpaiguri, Cooch Behar, and Alipurduar, where infrastructure remains limited.
For now, all eyes are on November, when the city will host hundreds of athletes and spectators for a week of intense, high-energy matches. A successful event could pave the way for Siliguri to bid for national-level tournaments in the near future.
External References and Further Reading
- India Meteorological Department – Weather Forecast for North Bengal
- West Bengal State Table Tennis Association
- Siliguri Municipal Corporation Official Website
- Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports – Infrastructure Initiatives
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