SAI Raises Stadia Rent, Imposes Penalties For Non-Sports Events
JLN Stadium rent jumps to Rs 25 lakh; fines for uncleaned venues are enforced.
The Sports Authority of India (SAI) has raised rental tariffs for non-sports events at its five Delhi venues, aiming to maintain the integrity of these facilities during off-seasons. The venues include Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium (JLN), Indira Gandhi Sports Complex, Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee Swimming Pool Complex, and Dr Karni Singh Shooting Range.
This move addresses complaints from athletes about post-event damage and litter, ensuring venues remain suitable for training and competitions. SAI's September 18 notification emphasises protective measures and cleanup responsibilities for organisers.
For non-sports gatherings like music concerts and fashion shows, fees have surged significantly—the first increase since 2011. JLN's main arena, popular for such events, now costs Rs 25 lakh per day, up from Rs 4.5 lakh for Indian artists, while international performers benefit from a reduction from around Rs 50 lakh.
The Indira Gandhi Sports Complex's main arena has doubled to Rs 16 lakh per day for up to five days. Major Dhyan Chand Stadium's main pavilion and spectator gallery are set at Rs 5 lakh, and the swimming pool complex's concrete area jumps from Rs 30,000 to Rs 5 lakh.
To enforce accountability, SAI introduced penalties for failing to return venues in good condition, including a 10% daily tariff fine and potential blacklisting. This follows incidents like Punjabi singer Diljit Dosanjh's recent concert at JLN, which left the stadium cluttered. An SAI source noted, "We don't want athletes to be affected by commercial activities," highlighting the need to safeguard athletic spaces amid growing commercial use.
Also Read: ICC Reappoints Pycroft For India-Pakistan Clash, PCB Skips Media Briefing
Sports events remain affordable: national and international competitions by ministry-recognised federations incur no fees except electricity charges. Ministry, federation, or state-organised events pay nominal amounts, such as Rs 40,000 per day at JLN. Schools, colleges, and registered societies face Rs 1 lakh at JLN, Rs 25,000 at Major Dhyan Chand, and Rs 20,000 to Rs 40,000 at Karni Singh, balancing accessibility with maintenance.
Also Read: Navi Mumbai To Host First Formula Night Street Race This December
