SVP Stadium Demolition Evokes Controversies

The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation has sparked debates by announcing the demolition of the iconic Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Stadium in the city.

The Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel (SVP) Stadium in Ahmedabad, which holds the honor of hosting the first One Day International match played in India, is being demolished as per the decision made by the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC). Demolition work started on September 10 and is estimated to last for four months. This has naturally stirred up discussions and emotions because a year ago there seemed to be a very positive response by the municipal corporation towards the need for its conservation.

The AMC plans to replace the 63-year-old stadium with a new modernized facility as part of Ahmedabad’s pitch for 2036.Summer Olympics. 

The Ahmedabad Mirror reported that” The stadium displays evident signs of wear and tear, including cracked seating areas and gates, as well as exposed and rusting iron elements that pose safety risks.” “We are going with the idea of demolition of the structure. Instead of spending crores on repairing, construction of a new one is a better idea which would last for another 50-60 years,” a senior AMC leader mentioned to the Ahmedabad Mirror. An AMC official further defended the demolition proposal claiming that,” The stadium is unsuitable even for hosting cultural events. So, it is worth noting that making its replacement a more viable option.” However, it is not clear if any professional advice was taken to conserve the iconic structure.

The SVP stadium, which was designed by architect Charles Correa and engineer Mahendra Raj in the 1960s, was constructed to host international cricket matches. Back in the early 1950s, the Province of Bombay graciously gifted the Cricket Club of Ahmedabad (CCA) a vast plot of land measuring 67,000 square meters for the purpose of constructing a grand Cricket Stadium and an adjoining clubhouse. The Cricket Club in turn handed over both the land and the project to the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation at a minimal fee. The renowned industrialist and former Mayor of Ahmedabad, Sheth Chinubhai Chimanbhai played an active role in engaging the globally recognized architect Charles Correa to design both the stadium and the Clubhouse, given Correa’s reputation as a prominent figure in modern progressive architecture.

The stadium’s cantilevered framing, designed with input from engineer Mahendra Raj, incorporated both architectural and engineering brilliance.

The World Monuments Fund (WMF) acknowledged that the SVP Stadium is historically important for post-independence India, but has deteriorated over time due to neglect and funding. The demolition of a structure of this stature would definitely have an effect on Ahmedabad’s World Heritage City reputation and shape the city’s future in relation to its rich historical past.

How did you like this video? Do let us know in the comment’s section. If you enjoy our work, please like and share it. For daily updates don’t forget to press the bell icon and subscribe to Airr News.

#SVP_Stadium#Ahmedabad#Ahmedabad_Municipal_Corporation#International_Cricket_Stadium#Demolition_News#Urban_Modernization#Heritage_Conservation#World_Monuments_Fund#Mahendra_Raj#Charles_Correa#Art_and_Architecture#Arts_News#News_in_English#Airr_News