It is CMDA versus TNCA in IPL finals as fate of renovated MAC stadium stands hang in balance

C Shivakumar

Chennai:

As the countdown for Indian Premier League Finals begin, Tamil Nadu Cricket Association is trying desperately to get Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA) clearance for the newly renovated three stands of M A Chidambaram stadium before it hosts the event.

While Tamil Nadu Cricket Association has put an end to all speculation in regard to the Indian Premier League eliminator (May 25) and final (May 27) being pulled out of Chennai over the clearance issue, CMDA is firm that unless TNCA meets all the regulations, it is highly unlikely that the civic body will unseal the stands.

CMDA sources told Express on Monday that TNCA not only lacked planning permission but there were setback violations while redesigning the stadium.  “There have been some setback violations and some structures had to be demolished. If they comply with all the regulations, then CMDA will have no objection in giving clearance certificate,” CMDA sources said without elaborating further.

Sources also said that TNCA has yet to get several no-objection certificates, including from the fire department. “Once they get all the clearance, then they have to get the development charge advice before getting clearance,” sources said.

Interestingly, TNCA has spent more than Rs 150 crore for the revamp of M A Chidambaram stadium. The three stands – G H and I, which were re-designed were caught in a controversy after civic authorities sealed it last year for violation of building norms.

And all eyes are now on CMDA as it bats against TNCA over the clearance issue with IPL finals less than a week away.