UP Govt and Indian Oil Sign MoU for Gorakhpur International Cricket Stadium Project

Total project cost estimated at ₹339 crore; Stadium to be completed by December 2027

Lucknow, February 20, 2026: In a significant boost to sports infrastructure in the Purvanchal region, the Government of Uttar Pradesh and Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) today in Lucknow for the construction of a proposed International Cricket Stadium in Gorakhpur. The agreement was formalized in the presence of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Shri Yogi Adityanath Ji Maharaj.

The MoU signing marks a pivotal step in realizing the stadium project, which is being developed with substantial financial backing from major public sector oil marketing companies. According to Chief Minister Adityanath, the project has received a total commitment of ₹100 crore from the oil sector, with Indian Oil contributing ₹60 crore through its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds. Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) are contributing ₹30 crore and ₹10 crore, respectively .

Project Overview and Vision

Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Adityanath emphasized that the stadium is not merely a sports facility but a strategic platform to nurture and propel emerging talent from eastern Uttar Pradesh to national and global prominence. He stated that the international-standard stadium would give fresh momentum to sports tourism, investment, and overall economic activities in the region .

Chief Minister Ji further highlighted that this initiative aligns perfectly with the vision of the Honorable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji to foster a robust sports culture in the country and encourage sportspersons. He noted that it will serve as a medium to showcase India's growing sporting prowess and contribute to the dream of a 'Viksit Bharat' (Developed India). He also pointed to the broader sports infrastructure push in the state, including the upcoming international stadium in Varanasi, targeted for completion by June 2026, and the rapid progress on the Major Dhyan Chand Sports University in Meerut .

Project Cost, Capacity, and Funding Details

The detailed project report outlines a comprehensive funding structure and ambitious targets:

Total Project Cost: ₹339 crore .
Major Contributions:
- Indian Oil Corporation (IOCL): ₹60 crore (CSR funding) .
- Bharat Petroleum Corporation (BPCL): ₹30 crore .
- Hindustan Petroleum Corporation (HPCL): ₹10 crore .
Seating Capacity: 30,000 spectators .
Target Completion Date: December 2027 .

Earlier reports from January 2026 had estimated the cost at ₹392.94 crore, with the state government releasing a first instalment of ₹63.39 crore to begin earth-filling and levelling work on the 45-acre site at Tal Nandaur along the Gorakhpur–Varanasi highway . An additional 5 acres have been earmarked for allied facilities .

World-Class Infrastructure

The proposed stadium is being designed and developed strictly in accordance with international standards set by the International Cricket Council (ICC) . It will be a two-tier structure equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including:

Seven main pitches and four practice pitches .
Modern practice areas .
High-quality floodlights for day-night matches .
Contemporary dressing rooms .
A well-equipped media centre .
Ample parking for approximately 1,500 vehicles .
Integration of sustainable features like solar panels and energy-efficient systems .

As a multi-purpose venue, the complex will also be capable of hosting large non-sporting events, adding to its utility and vibrancy .

Industry Commitment

Expressing pride in the association, IOCL Chairman Arvinder Sahni called the MoU a "matter of pride" for the group and assured the Chief Minister of Indian Oil's steadfast commitment to supporting the holistic development of Uttar Pradesh .

A Model of Public-Private Partnership

Chief Minister Adityanath lauded the involvement of the oil companies, describing their CSR support as a shining example of how public-private partnerships can play a transformative role in the state's comprehensive development. He reiterated that the government is making budgetary provisions to establish sports colleges in every division, further strengthening the sports ecosystem from the grassroots level .

The Gorakhpur International Cricket Stadium is poised to become a landmark destination for cricket in eastern Uttar Pradesh, providing world-class facilities for players and fans alike, and acting as a powerful catalyst for regional development.