Rourkela’s Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium Offers A New Experience For Physically Challenged Fans

Rourkela: In order to ensure smooth and enjoyable experience of the matches for all spectators, the Odisha Government has made special arrangements to make the Birsa Munda International Hockey Stadium in Rourkela easily accessible for the differently-abled.

During the construction of the stadium, arrangement to make it all inclusive was stressed. It was emphasised to build a ramp that leads to the lift, taking the differently abled fans to the floor having access to the stand on the first tier.

“A differently-abled person can enter the stadium from any gate. We have made it universally accessible for them. The stadium has about 100 seats allocated for them,” Vineel Krishna, Sports Secretary said.

Besides arrangements for differently abled people, the stadium aims to provide a classic match experience for all fans visiting the venue.

The gallery seating is designed in such a way that there will not be any vision block for fans irrespective of where they are seated in the stadium. The stadium has been divided into two levels – the lower bowl and upper bowl.

“All efforts have been made considering the overall fan experience and the needs of differently abled people. Steps have been taken to include them in community events and activities,” Krishna said.

The Birsa Munda Stadium was completed in 15 months, while the World Cup Village was built in 9 months.