Built for 22 cr, Morabadi stage to be razed over design flaws
Ranchi: The
Morabadi Ground stage
, built in 2019 as part of a Rs 22 crore urban development project by the
Jharkhand Urban Infrastructure Development
Company (
JUIDCO
), is set to be dismantled following critical
design flaws
flagged during a recent inspection on Feb 27 by the district administration.
Although the entire development aimed to modernise the space for public and ceremonial events, the stage, which was the only completed component, proved inadequate for large gatherings and state functions.
The decision has triggered a political controversy, with the opposition accusing the govt of destroying state assets created during BJP tenures. Though the JUIDCO project was envisioned as a multi-use plaza for large-scale public functions, only the stage was completed.
The structure, measuring 75 ft by 40 ft and featuring a tensile canopy, 11 LED screens, and Gobo lights, has proven inadequate for key events like R-Day and Independence Day.
The inspection found that the canopy and its pillars obstruct visibility and the 9 ft elevation fails to ensure clear line of sight for attendees.
Further, the static design prevents expansion, often forcing the administration to install temporary stages up to 72 ft ahead of the current platform, compromising space and event layout.
"Based on inspection findings, it was decided that the current stage and canopy would be dismantled. Temporary, functional structures suited to individual events will replace it. Large public programmes typically require stage lengths of 80 to 180 ft, which this setup does not support," said Ranchi DC Manjunath Bhajantri.
BJP's state spokesperson Pratul Shahdeo lashed out at the Hemant Soren-led govt, saying, "Why demolish a multi-purpose stage that served Republic Day, Independence Day, and several historic rallies, including two of Hemant Soren's own oath-taking ceremonies? Was this decision driven by any public demand or simply an attempt to erase BJP-era contributions?" He accused the govt of wasteful spending, especially when departments claim a lack of funds for essential schemes.
Shahdeo added, "This stage was also a platform for local artists. Now the govt, instead of preserving such infrastructure, is arbitrarily tearing it down." According to the officials, future makeshift stage structures will prioritise visibility, modularity, and audience capacity to meet modern event demands.
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