Government unveils ambitious sports infrastructure roadmap with new stadiums and modernized venues


Kathmandu: The Government of Nepal has announced an extensive plan to modernize the nation’s sports infrastructure, focusing on upgrading existing facilities and constructing new international-standard venues.

During the budget presentation for the fiscal year 2083/84 before a joint session of the Federal Parliament, Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Waglé stated that the government aims to upgrade ten football stadiums to an 8,000-seat capacity, complete with modern floodlight systems, within the next three years. Additionally, the administration has set a five-year goal to construct modern cricket stadiums in eight major cities across the country to accommodate the growing popularity of the sport.

The infrastructure push also includes a significant investment in indoor sports facilities to provide versatile training and competition spaces. Dr. Waglé announced that 2,000-seat multipurpose indoor stadiums will be constructed within three years in seven key urban hubs, including Kathmandu, Biratnagar, Lahan, Butwal, Pokhara, Surkhet, and Fapla in Dhangadhi. These facilities are expected to serve as regional centres for various sporting disciplines, enhancing the accessibility of sports infrastructure for athletes across the provinces.

Furthermore, the government plans to expedite the development of premier cricket venues by refining their design and financial frameworks. The Minister noted that the government will review the designs and prepare specific investment modalities for the Mulpani Cricket Stadium and Academy, the Girija Prasad Koirala Cricket Stadium, and the Fapla Cricket Ground. By establishing clear investment structures for these high-priority projects, the administration aims to ensure their timely completion and long-term sustainability, further cementing Nepal’s position as a rising hub for international cricket.