KARACHI, March 11: Sindh Government is planning to construct a big stadium in the city having a capacity for 100,000 spectators.
This was disclosed by Sindh Chief Minister Sardar Ali Mohammed Mahar, while talking to journalists after a visit to the National Stadium to review the arrangements for cricket match between Pakistan and India, to be held on March 13.
He observed that the National Stadium, with its capacity of only 35,000 people, had become insufficient for city's ever-growing population. He said the first international one-day match between Pakistan and India was being held in the city in the last 14 years, and the visiting Indian squad would be offered Sindh's traditional love and hospitality, while spectators should also demonstrate an exemplary discipline.
The CM said that there would be strict security during the match and the administration expected good behaviour on the part of spectators. He directed the administration and law enforcers to take every step to ensure safety and comfort of both the teams.
The IGP and DCO apprised the chief minister of arrangements for the match. He was informed about the facilities to be provided to local and foreign media and for spectators, particularly the women.
The chief minister went round various sections of the stadium, including galleries, enclosures, ticket window, media centre, press gallery and expressed satisfaction over the arrangements. He directed that all renovation and repair work be completed before the match.
ARRANGEMENTS REVIEWED: Sindh Governor Dr Ishratul Ibad Khan has said that Pakistan-India one-day match on March 13 will promote friendly relations between the two countries and eliminate tensions.
Speaking during his visit to the National Stadium, the governor said that the match in Karachi would have a two-pronged importance - on one hand the people would be entertained with an important cricket match, and on the other a positive impression of the country would be established.
In the recent days, he pointed out, the city was bustling with continuous diplomatic, commercial, social and cultural activities and events of international significance, which would be further strengthened with the people's cooperation.
Meanwhile, the match arrangements were again reviewed today in a meeting held at the Governor's House under the chairmanship of governor's Principal Secretary, Akhtar Zamin. The facilities inside the stadium, security measures, traffic and parking arrangements were discussed in detail. He expressed the hope that spectators would demonstrate sportsman spirit on the occasion. -APP
