Though India has some of the world’s most aesthetically blessed cricket grounds like Dharamshala or the iconic Eden Gardens, hosting the world’s largest cricket ground is a completely different feeling if we keep in mind the history Indians have with cricket.
For a country where cricket is no less than a festival, the inauguration of the world’s largest cricket stadium would be a moment that would go into history books.
So with that being said, here’re some interesting facts about Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Stadium in Ahmedabad that you should be aware of.
1. The Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Stadium is also known as Motera Stadium. Motera Stadium was demolished in 2016 to redevelop it as the world’s largest stadium.
2. The old Motera Stadium had a seating capacity of 54,000 people.
3. With a seating capacity of 1,10,000 people, the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Stadium will overtake Melbourne Cricket Stadium, which is the current world’s largest stadium and can seat 1,00,024 people.
4. The Motera stadium in its new life spreads over 63 acres.
5. The Gujarat Cricket Association (GCA) had roped in principal architect Populous, project management consultant STUP Consultants and developer L&T, to redevelop the stadium.
6. Populous is the same firm that is credited with designing the Melbourne Stadium.
7. The total cost of building the cricket stadium has been quoted at Rs 800 crore.
8. The stadium has the main cricket ground and three small practice cricket ground within the stadium.
9. The stadium has four locker rooms, 75 air-conditioned corporate boxes and a clubhouse for GCA members.
10. Other facilities include restaurants, Olympic size swimming pool, gymnasium and party area.
11. A solar power plant is also being constructed around the stadium to fuel its energy needs, especially during no match days.
12. The stadium can park 3,000 four-wheeler cars and up to 10,000 two-wheelers.
13. Ahmedabad cricket stadium is said to have a world-class drainage system. After heavy rain, the match can be re-started in 30 minutes.
14. A direct metro line connects the stadium to tackle commuting woes and lessen people’s dependency on private vehicles.
