Newly constructed galleries in M A Chidambaram stadium to remain vacant during IPL matches

C Shivakumar

Chennai:

The newly reconstructed galleries in M A Chidamaram stadium are likely to remain vacant during the IPL matches as the lock and seal could only be removed after getting the planning permission and completion certificate.

The galleries I J and K in the stadium had been sealed by Chennai Corporation last year as these galleries were built before obtaining approvals from the civic body or planning permission from Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority.

CMDA sources said the multi-storied building panel discussed the issue and has forwarded its recommendation to the government. “It may take time. “First the planning permission has to be granted for the structure and then the completion certificate. And it can’t be possible within a week,” said a CMDA source.

Interestingly, Tamil Nadu Cricket Association has obtained an Environmental Impact Assessment clearance, the multi-storey building panel has yet to grant its assent. “The file was discussed along with 14 other files,” said another CMDA source.

Sources said although matches will be conducted but the stand will remain empty. Interestingly, R Vaithilingam, State Minister for Housing and Urban Development, said on Thursday the government is likely to revoke the lock and seal notice but did not give any time frame as to when it will be revoked.

The TNCA management in 2009 embarked on the modernisation and redevelopment of the 40-year-old stadium after the International Cricket Council (ICC) came out with a stringent conditions for such structures to host international matches.

Besides modernizing the stadium to meet the ICC’s conditions, the TNCA started the reconstruction work with state-of-the-art facilities to increase spectator capacity in the MAC Ground.