Visakhapatnam: The groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of PV Sindhu Center of Badminton Excellence was held at Thotagaruvu Junction in Arilova on Thursday amidst protests by locals.
The proposed academy will be constructed in phases and is expected to open by Sankranti 2026with remaining works to be completed later.
The protests were led by former TDP corporator Vommi Sanyasi Rao. They demanded that the land allotted to Sindhu be used for a junior college and a school instead. Locals have been demanding a new school in the area as the existing one is overcrowded with around 1,800 students. However, Arilova police prevented the agitators from entering the land.
Sindhu said the academy would be set up in two phases at an estimated cost of Rs 10 crore. It would provide better coaching and facilities to children.
“This centre will serve as a destination for players at all levels. This project, which reflects my thoughts, was shaped by my strong determination to give back to the sports community that supported my journey as an Olympian. I feel it is my responsibility to guide and direct the next generation in sports and help them win many more laurels for our country,” she said.
The previous YSRCP govt had allotted two acres land to the former world champion in June 2021 through GO MS No. 134. The Olympic medalist had requested five acres of land for the academy in 2019 following her BWF World Championship title. The land was transferred from the animal husbandry department to her.
