Tura, June 22: Meghalaya’s recently constructed PA Sangma Stadium in Tura faced a major setback on Thursday morning when a section of the facility collapsed amid heavy rainfall. The region has been experiencing continuous downpours and thunderstorms, leading to landslides and property damage across Garo Hills.
The incident took place as a thunderstorm and relentless rain swept through Garo Hills, starting at 5 am on June 22. Due to the absence of a retaining wall in a specific section, the stadium became susceptible to the force of the elements, resulting in a significant landslide that displaced a large amount of soil from the field above.
It is noteworthy that Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma inaugurated the long-awaited PA Sangma sports complex in Tura in December of last year. Football enthusiasts had high hopes that the newly inaugurated sports complex would contribute to the development of football in Meghalaya.
The inauguration of the PA Sangma sports complex in Tura was attended by Meghalaya CM Conrad Sangma and State Health Minister James Sangma. On the occasion, a bust of the late PA Sangma, a former Lok Sabha Speaker, was also unveiled.
Also Read: Meghalaya Government Implements Age Limit, Terminates Services of Employees Above 70
The football stadium boasts a substantial seating capacity of 9,500 and was constructed at a cost of Rs 127.7 crore. The collapse of a section of the stadium raises concerns about its structural integrity and safety measures.
This unfortunate incident serves as a reminder of the importance of robust infrastructure development that takes into account the region’s unique geographical challenges. It also highlights the need for regular maintenance and inspections to ensure the safety of such facilities, especially during periods of heavy rainfall and adverse weather conditions.
The authorities will undoubtedly investigate the cause of the collapse and take the necessary steps to rectify the situation. Efforts will likely focus on reinforcing the affected section and implementing additional safety measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The PA Sangma Stadium collapse not only raises questions about the integrity of the structure but also impacts the aspirations of local football enthusiasts who were hopeful that the sports complex would contribute to the growth and promotion of the sport in the state.
As the authorities work towards addressing the aftermath of the collapse, it is essential to prioritize the safety of individuals and ensure that stringent measures are put in place to prevent such incidents from occurring again. The incident serves as a reminder of the challenges posed by nature and the importance of resilient infrastructure that can withstand adverse weather conditions, ensuring the safety and well-being of all.
