New Delhi: Ahmedabad could host the 2030 Commonwealth Games. On Wednesday, the Executive Board (EB) of Commonwealth Sport, the Games’ global governing body, recommended Ahmedabad to host the centenary edition of the CWG. The official announcement of the host city will be made on November 26 during the Commonwealth Sport’s general assembly in Glasgow.
Minister of State for Youth Affairs & Sports, Raksha Nikhil Khadse wrote on social media: “Bharat takes another giant leap in the global sporting arena! The Executive Board of Commonwealth Sport has recommended Ahmedabad, India, as the proposed host city for the 2030 Centenary Commonwealth Games. This shining acknowledgment reflects India’s world-class infrastructure, hospitality & thriving sports ecosystem. A proud moment that brings the world closer to Bharat’s vibrant heart!”
President, Commonwealth Games Association of India, Dr P T Usha said: “The Centenary Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad will be Games for the Future: built on sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation. This is an opportunity to strengthen the Commonwealth Sport Movement and create a legacy that reaches far beyond India’s borders.”
Massive impetus to infra development
If Ahmedabad gets the go-ahead, it will be the second time that India will host the multisport event. The 2010 edition was held in New Delhi, which marked massive infrastructure development, including world-class stadiums, athlete villages, and upgraded transport and sporting facilities. A similar infrastructure boost is expected in Ahmedabad. A slew of projects will turn the city into a modern sports hub.
Delhi braced for the CWG in 2010 with a lot of planning and vision. Just like Delhi, Ahmedabad is likely to get new stadiums, sports arenas, and training centres. Existing venues will be upgraded to match international standards, including multipurpose stadiums that can host multiple disciplies: athletics, swimming, and other indoor sports.
Villages for athletes coming from across the Commonwealth countries will be developed in the city, as they were done in the national capital. These villages will accommodate the athletes, while providing them the best of facilities. Hotels, restaurants and stay homes will also mushroom to cater to visitors and sports enthusiasts who come to witness the sporting extravaganza. Tourism and hospitality sector will see a significant leg-up, driving economic growth. The CWG is expected to attract investors, giving an impetus to real estate development, while local businesses are likely to see increased opportunities and growth.
Ahmedabad already has a good public transport system. However, the conveyance facilities will be improved and made seamless, with enhanced transport networks. New roads and flyovers may be built for smooth flow of traffic. Extension of existing metro network could also be carried out to better the mobility within and around the city.
Sabarmati Riverfront has beautified the city and lent it an elegant look. If Ahmedabad is chosen to host CWG in 2030, the next five years may see a plethora of beautification projects. These may include parks, waterfront development along Sabarmati Riverfront and development of green public spaces. Projects may also be rolled out for better waste management and depollution of the water bodies across the city. Policies will also be floated with an aim to improve traffic management and enhance road safety as well as advanced surveillance.
Hosting the CWG could be a huge milestone for Ahmedabad. The Games are likely to witness a development boom that could stay as an enduring legacy.