New Delhi: State-owned ITI Limited has secured a major infrastructure project worth ₹72.76 crore for the construction of a modern Ice Hockey Rink at Kaza Soma in the Lahaul and Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh. The project has been awarded by the Office of the Deputy Commissioner, Lahaul & Spiti, marking a significant step in strengthening winter sports infrastructure in India’s high-altitude regions.
Boost to Winter Sports Infrastructure in Spiti
The project aims to develop world-class facilities for ice hockey and other winter sports in the Spiti Valley, located at an altitude of nearly 12,000 feet above sea level. The initiative is part of the High-Altitude Sports Training Centre programme, designed to promote youth development, professional sports training, and sports tourism in remote Himalayan regions.
Project Scope and Key Facilities
Under the contract, ITI Limited will construct a full-scale ice hockey rink along with modern supporting infrastructure, including:
- 500 kW solar power backup system to ensure uninterrupted operations
- Advanced lighting systems suitable for professional sporting events
- CCTV surveillance for enhanced safety and security
- Facilities designed for both players and spectators, meeting contemporary standards
The inclusion of solar power reflects a strong focus on sustainability, especially critical in ecologically sensitive and hard-to-access terrains.
Leadership Perspective
Commenting on the project, Rajesh Rai, Chairman and Managing Director of ITI Limited, said the new ice hockey rink will significantly enhance sports infrastructure in Himachal Pradesh and help position Spiti as a prominent winter sports destination. He also highlighted ITI’s ongoing developmental work in the state under BharatNet Phase III, where the company is laying over 20,000 kilometres of optical fibre cable and establishing the State Network Operation Centre.
Strategic Importance of the Project
The project underscores ITI Limited’s expanding role beyond telecom manufacturing into large-scale infrastructure development. It also reflects the government’s focus on promoting sports and sustainable development in remote and border areas while creating opportunities for local youth.
About ITI Limited
ITI Limited is India’s first public sector undertaking established after Independence and a leading name in telecom manufacturing and infrastructure services. The company operates under the Ministry of Communications and has diversified into defence, ICT solutions, and infrastructure projects across the country.
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