Lucknow: In a major boost to sports infrastructure in eastern Uttar Pradesh, the Government of Uttar Pradesh and Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the construction of a 30,000-capacity International Cricket Stadium in Gorakhpur.
The agreement was formalized in the presence of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath in Lucknow.
The stadium project, estimated at ₹339 crore, is scheduled for completion by December 2027.
₹339 Crore Project: Funding Structure Explained
The Gorakhpur International Cricket Stadium will be developed with financial support from major public sector oil marketing companies under their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives.
Key Contributions:
- Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL): ₹60 crore (CSR funding)
- Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL): ₹30 crore
- Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL): ₹10 crore
The oil sector has committed ₹100 crore in total, while the remaining project cost will be supported by the state government.
Earlier estimates in January 2026 had pegged the project cost at ₹392.94 crore. The state government had already released ₹63.39 crore for initial earth-filling and leveling work on the 45-acre site at Tal Nandaur along the Gorakhpur–Varanasi highway, with an additional 5 acres earmarked for allied facilities.
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Stadium Capacity and World-Class Facilities
The upcoming international-standard stadium will have:
- Seating capacity: 30,000 spectators
- Seven main pitches and four practice pitches
- Dedicated practice areas
- High-quality floodlights for day-night matches
- Modern dressing rooms
- Fully equipped media centre
- Parking space for approximately 1,500 vehicles
- Sustainable infrastructure including solar panels and energy-efficient systems
The stadium will be developed in accordance with standards set by the International Cricket Council (ICC) and will be a two-tier structure capable of hosting both international cricket matches and large non-sporting events.
Boost to Sports Tourism and Regional Economy
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath described the project as more than just a sports facility. He emphasized that the stadium will:
- Promote sports tourism in eastern Uttar Pradesh
- Attract private investment
- Generate employment opportunities
- Encourage local sporting talent
He stated that the project aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of strengthening India’s sports culture and building a “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India).
The Chief Minister also highlighted ongoing sports infrastructure projects, including the upcoming international cricket stadium in Varanasi and the Major Dhyan Chand Sports University in Meerut.
Governance and Economic Transformation
During the Assembly budget session in Lucknow, the Chief Minister stated that Uttar Pradesh has transitioned from a revenue deficit to a revenue surplus over the past nine years. He credited the “double-engine government” and a zero-tolerance policy for improving law and order, boosting economic growth, and enhancing the state’s image nationally and globally.
He also noted the expansion of the festival and temple economy, citing the participation of over 21 crore devotees during the Magh Mela at the Triveni River.
A Model Public-Private Partnership
The Gorakhpur International Cricket Stadium stands as a strong example of public-private collaboration. The involvement of major oil marketing companies through CSR funding demonstrates how corporate partnerships can accelerate infrastructure development and strengthen the sports ecosystem at the grassroots level.
About Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL)
Indian Oil Corporation Limited is India’s largest commercial oil company and a Fortune Global 500 enterprise. The company plays a critical role in refining, pipeline transportation, and marketing of petroleum products across India. Through its Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives, Indian Oil actively supports projects in education, healthcare, sports, and sustainable development, contributing significantly to nation-building efforts.
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