In order to prepare for the ODI World Cup, Delhi plans to invest between Rs 20 and Rs 25 crore

For the five matches it will host during the ODI World Cup in October-November, the Arun Jaitley Stadium will go through extensive renovations totaling between Rs 20 and Rs 25 crore.

The location, which earlier this year hosted the second Test match between Australia and India, has come under fire for failing to maintain even the most basic standards of cleanliness within the stadium, particularly in the restrooms.

Following a Gap evaluation by the Indian cricket board (BCCI), it was reported in April that Delhi was one of the five locations in the nation that required a significant renovation. A gap analysis shows the differences between the organization’s actual condition and its intended future state.

The other cities were Mohali, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Mumbai, none of which made the list of the 10 World Cup locations selected on Tuesday.

In the last ten years, the game’s popularity in India has soared, and the BCCI has made billions from broadcast rights. However, since most stadiums in India lack even the most basic amenities, the supporters are often overlooked.

The Delhi and District Cricket Association’s joint secretary, Rajan Manchanda, said that they will prioritise improving the World Cup fan experience.

“We appreciate the BCCI giving us five games. Prior to the major event, we will concentrate on enhancing the stadium’s infrastructure to make it a pleasant experience for the spectators.

According to Manchanda, “We have planned a significant upgrade in the facilities, which will change the spectator seats, renovate the restrooms, paint the walls, and change our ticketing software.”

The Arun Jaitley Stadium can hold around 35,000 people, and according to Manchanda, the DDCA will replace about 10,000 seats in addition to updating the venue’s 15-year-old turnstiles.

“We must provide our supporters sanitary restrooms, hygienic food, and water at a fair price. Additionally, the cleaning team’s size will be expanded. By September 15, we want to have everything finished, Manchanda said.

The third week of July will see a recce of the site, which will also include the pitch and outfield, conducted by teams from the BCCI and International Cricket Council, he said.

Even if the weather is not severe in October and November, the spectators will still have to sit in the sun since DDCA is unable to cover the open stands with a roof due to a serious construction defect.

The current building must be demolished and a new one constructed from the ground up in order for the venue to have a roof.

On October 7, Delhi will host the tournament’s first match between South Africa and a Qualifier. When India plays Afghanistan on October 11, it will host its greatest game. On October 14, Afghanistan will also compete against the formidable England.

The last two league matches are scheduled for October 25 and November 6.