FIFA certified Bhaichung Stadium inaugurated today by the Governor of Sikkim Ganga Prasad on the occasion of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas in the presence of Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, Bhaichung Bhutia, Former Indian Football Team Captain along other dignitaries and sports persons.
Addressing, the gathering, Governor Ganga Prasad expressed his exultation on the inauguration of the much awaited Bhaichung Stadium in the state of Sikkim. He added that this is a special occasion for the citizens of Sikkim and other sports persons in the country, as this stadium will provide a platform to hone the skills of playing and watching professional football matches.
Furthermore, Governor stated that this inauguration coincides with Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s 146th birth anniversary, which is celebrated as National Unity Day or Rashtriya Ekta Diwas across the country.
Likewise, Chief Minister PS Tamang, while addressing the gathering, congratulated and dedicated the stadium to the people of Sikkim and other sports players at large. He said, “This stadium is a gift to the people of Namchi, the stadium will play a vital role in shaping the game mentality of the rising aspirants in sports of Sikkim”
“State Government has and will always give priority in sports section, they will strive to develop sports based facility and extend all possible assistance in evolving the sports field.” Tamang said
CM Tamang on the completion of stadium within two years of time said,” Despite challenges, Bhaichung stadium was finished in two years time which is a milestone for the State Government. This stadium will promote sports, help in bringing people together in the spirit of sportsmanship, overall this stadium will be a symbol for celebration.”
The Chief Minister added that the stadium is named after the legendary footballer Bhaichung Bhutia who is the recipient of the prestigious Arjuna and Padma awards among others. The name of the stadium refers to the achievements of Bhaichung Bhutia which has been immortalized to encourage budding sports players of our state
The Bhaichung Stadium has approximately 7500 seating capacity and has been awarded the ‘Fifa Quality Pro’ label. The sporting surface is made of tiger turf and the total area of the stadium is 19650 SQM in which the playing field area is 105m X 68m, respectively.
The facilities that the stadium comprises are the offices for physiotherapists, managers, linesmen, referees, changing and coach rooms. Additionally, there is a food court, computer, media and public address rooms. A mess and a space for the hall of fame have also been put up. The stadium also has a VVIP lounge, hostel, warden, commentators and a utility room.
The arena is equipped with a state-of-art firefighting system, rainwater harvesting tank, digital scoreboard, boundary fencing, diesel generator set, green gallery and a parking facility for at least 50 cars.
Bhaichung Bhutia addressing the media expressed his joy over the inauguration of the stadium, he said,“ I have a dream to create players such as Messi and Ronaldo from Sikkim and i believe this stadium will be pivotal in the development of such”
“ I would like to thank the state government for the stadium” he added
Furthermore, during the inaugural event of the Bhaichung stadium Governor and the Chief Minister felicitated the 1971 Indo-Pak war veterans and next of kin of soldiers martyred in various operations/actions and Everster Manita Pradhan was also felicitated as noteworthy performance in adventure sports for scaling numerous mountains including Mount Everest