Hubballi: In a few short months, Hubballi will proudly open the doors to its first international-standard multi-sports complex at RM Lohia Nagar, a project set to become a model for the entire state. Deputy Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Assembly and Hubballi-Dharwad West MLA, Arvind Bellad, shared this exciting update with reporters after offering the media a glimpse of the sprawling complex on Saturday.
Bellad, beaming with pride, explained that bringing this dream to life required immense effort and perseverance. What started as a raw idea has now transformed into a near-reality — and one that promises to inspire many across Karnataka.
Spread over 16 acres, the massive sports complex will soon be home to facilities for 19 different sports, including tennis, kabaddi, kho-kho, squash, hockey, and more. Currently, around 85% of the work is complete, and the final touches are expected to be finished within the next three to four months.
“This has been a personal dream for me,” Bellad said, reflecting on his journey. “I wanted my constituency to have a facility that matches global standards.” He shared how he sought advice from top engineering firms and sports experts to ensure the complex would meet world-class expectations. Among the many influential voices he consulted was renowned sports commentator Charu Sharma, who advised him to create a true sports complex — centered around athletes and their needs — rather than just building a traditional stadium. Inspired by this vision, Bellad set the wheels in motion.
The project, with an estimated cost of ₹180 crore, has been largely funded by the Smart City project grants. Every feature within the complex has been crafted with precision and the highest standards in mind. From an Olympic-standard swimming pool and warm-up pool to an international-standard shooting arena, the complex leaves no detail overlooked. Facilities for both indoor and outdoor sports have been thoughtfully designed to offer athletes the very best.
Bellad proudly mentioned that the kabaddi arena, in particular, is built to such a high standard that it could host prestigious tournaments like the Pro Kabaddi League.
Beyond sports, the complex will offer a range of amenities — including dedicated rooms for athletes and coaches, spectator restrooms, broadcasting facilities, a cafeteria, lounges, a theatre for musical events, and spaces for school gatherings and cultural programs.
The facility received a special visit from Raksha Khadse, Union Minister of State for Sports and Youth Affairs, who was left spellbound by the scale and quality of the project. She lauded Bellad’s efforts and assured full technical support from the Union government to ensure the complex becomes a benchmark for future developments.
