Chennai: Tenders Called For Construction In Global Sports City at Semmancheri For 127 Acres

The Global Sports City in Semmancheri, on Chennai's Old Mahabalipuram Road (OMR), represents Tamil Nadu's ambitious push to create a world-class sports hub, transforming the area into a premier destination for athletes and events. Announced in the 2023-24 budget and approved with ₹261 crore in October 2025, this Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA) project spans over 127 acres, including a lake for water sports, with ₹30 crore allocated for 2025-26 and ₹231 crore next.​ And now tenders have been called for the construction of Phase I: 83 acres (Water & Land sports), Phase II: 29 acres (Indoor & Outdoor Stadium ), and Phase III: 15 acres (Future Development).

Tenders for construction were called as of January 11, 2026, targeting 83 acres initially for FIFA-standard football turf, shooting ranges, archery fields, water sports like rowing and kayaking, skateboarding, aquatics, and multipurpose arenas compliant with international federations. The master plan integrates rainwater harvesting, eco-friendly designs, and zones for both land and water disciplines, addressing Chennai's infrastructure gaps while eyeing the Olympic 2036 events.​

Semmancheri's connectivity via Chennai Metro Rail and OMR makes it ideal for national training camps and marquee tournaments, fostering grassroots talent through academies for sports science, coaching, and physiotherapy. Recovered 91 acres worth ₹2,010 crore enable phased expansion to indoor/outdoor stadiums, boosting local real estate and youth fitness amid India's broader Khelo India momentum.​

Full rollout promises Chennai as South India's sports capital, with sustainable features like modern stormwater drains supporting diverse events from kabaddi to BMX, mirroring Punjab's stadium surges but with global standards. Completion of early phases by 2027 could host international meets, nurturing talents like those from Kurukshetra or Mohali while curbing urban underutilization issues. This initiative aligns with national equity goals, potentially serving millions via public access.

Construction work in a facility belonging to the civic body and near the Uzhavar Santhai at Anna Nagar in Ward 28 is nearing completion. ₹5.51 crore was sanctioned under the State Finance Commission Grant and the Corporation Funds to develop this sports complex. The construction commenced in January 2025, and almost 90% of the work has been completed, as per the officials. The user fee has been fixed based on peak and non-peak hours. Monthly charges for tennis and badminton courts range from ₹2,000 to ₹3,000 per hour per day. Charges for table tennis range between ₹500 and ₹1,000, billiards is priced at ₹5,000, and gym usage costs ₹1,500 for non-members.