KATHMANDU, June 10: Minister for Youth and Sports, Biraj Bhakta Shrestha, inspected the infrastructure preparations for the 10th National Games in Surkhet, Karnali, on Monday.
The inspection covered the main stadium, swimming pool, the newly-built covered hall, badminton hall, and other facilities under construction. Biswamitra Sanjyal, member secretary of the Karnali Province Sports Development Council, provided a detailed update, noting that 80 percent of the stadium work is complete, with all projects except the synthetic track expected to be finished by mid-July.
'SAG preparation to begin in few days'
Sanjyal assured that the remaining structures, including a dozen new sports facilities such as a stadium, cricket ground, multi-purpose covered hall, volleyball court, basketball court, rugby field, football field, handball court, squash court, and swimming pool, will be completed on time.
Minister Shrestha expressed confidence that the 10th National Games will proceed as scheduled. He encouraged everyone to participate and celebrate the event as a festival. He said that housing for participants might be a challenge and emphasized the need for careful planning.
Minister Shrestha thanked the provincial government for its investment in infrastructure and the proactive efforts of the provincial sports council. He affirmed that the ministry is committed to ensuring the event is held on time.
The Karnali Province Sports Development Council also briefed the minister on the potential venues for the matches. Thirty games are ready to be played across nine districts, while six sports - lawn tennis, shooting, gymnastics, soft tennis, triathlon, and golf-cannot be held in Karnali due to the lack of facilities.
After the inspection, Minister Shrestha interacted with Karnali Chief Minister Yam Lal Kadel, Social Development Minister Bir Bahadur Shahi, and Birendranagar Mayor Mohan Maya Dhakal. Discussions were also held with the Surkhet Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
