India sets sights on 2038 Asian Games; Ahmedabad poised to serve as central hub for games, what preparations have already begun?
Following its strong bid for the 2036 Olympics and having secured the hosting rights for the 2030 Commonwealth Games (CWG), India has now set its sights on the 2038 Asian Games. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has officially expressed its interest in hosting the event.
On Thursday, the Executive Board of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) held a meeting in Sanya, China, where India's proposal was discussed. The Board decided that an evaluation team would soon visit the country to assess India's preparations. Apart from India, South Korea and Mongolia have also expressed their interest in the 2038 slot.
Gujarat govt commences construction of sports infrastructure
Much like the 2036 Olympics and the 2030 CWG, Ahmedabad is poised to serve as the central hub for the 2038 Asian Games as well. The Gujarat government has already commenced the construction of sports infrastructure on a massive scale to facilitate this.
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Enclave, spanning 355 acres near the Narendra Modi Stadium, will serve as the primary hub. Facilities for aquatics, a tennis center, and an indoor arena are currently being constructed here.
Karai Sports Hub, located in Gandhinagar and spread over 143-acres, is being developed to house an athletics stadium, a shooting complex, and various other venues.
India hosted the inaugural Asian Games in 1951. Subsequently, the country last hosted the Games in 1982. On both occasions, the event was hosted by Delhi. If India wins the bid for 2038, it will mark the return of the Asian Games to the country after a hiatus of 56 years.
Major Event at a Low Cost
IOA officials believe that hosting the 2038 Asian Games is a 'logical step' for India. Since the infrastructure in Ahmedabad will already be in place for the 2030 Commonwealth Games and the 2036 Olympics, the cost of organizing the Asian Games would be significantly reduced. If India secures the hosting rights for the 2036 Olympics, the same venues could be utilized for the Asian Games.