On the 24th of February 2021, a monumental transformation took place in the realm of cricket stadiums as the Sardar Patel Stadium, also known as Motera Stadium, was renamed Narendra Modi Stadium. Nestled on the banks of the Sabarmati river in Motera, Ahmedabad, this colossal stadium stands as a testament to architectural prowess and construction marvels. Let’s delve into the remarkable features that make it the largest cricket stadium globally.
Spread across a vast 63 acres in Gujarat, India, the Narendra Modi Stadium boasts a seating capacity of 110,000, surpassing Australia’s renowned Melbourne Cricket Ground by an impressive 10,000 seats. The enormity of the project becomes even more awe-inspiring considering its completion within a mere three-year timeframe.
The architectural blueprint for this colossal project was crafted by POPULOUS, a sports-architecture firm based in Australia. Teaming up with India’s premier contractor, Larsen & Toubro, the collaboration birthed an extraordinary venue that now serves as the home ground for the Gujarat Cricket Association.
While conventional stadiums often employ repetitive structural elements, the Sardar Patel Stadium distinguishes itself through exposed-concrete design. In a departure from the norm, precast concrete segments were utilized, presenting challenges in transportation, casting, lifting, and erection.
1. Structural Elements of the Sardar Patel Stadium
1.1 Upper and Lower Bowls : The stadium features distinct upper and lower bowls designed to accommodate 55,000 spectators each.
1.2 Podium Level : Elevated 12 meters above street level, the podium level ensures seamless pedestrian traffic and facilitates entry to the upper and lower seating bowls.
1.3 Vomitory Staircases : Gigantic pedestrian staircases provide swift entry and exit for the audience, enhancing the overall stadium experience.
1.4 HY and GY Columns : The unique HY and GY columns, with their lopsided molding, contribute both aesthetically and practically to the stadium’s structural integrity.
1.5 Primary, Secondary, and Circumferential Beams : The primary and secondary radial beams, circumferential beams, and precast hollow-core slab panels form the intricate framework of the stadium.
1.6 Structural Steel Roof : The stadium’s roof, a marvel of structural steel, comprises radial cables, inner tension and outer compression rings, and a membrane.
2. Construction Stages of the Sardar Patel Stadium
2.1 Lifting Stage : HY columns, crucial structural components, are meticulously lifted using hoisting cables after being cast on precast concrete beds.
2.2 Transportation Stage : Self-propelled trailers navigate the uneven construction site, transporting HY columns with precision using hydraulic lifts.
2.3 Erection Stage : The critical erection phase employs bespoke C-shaped clamps and two cranes to pivot HY columns from horizontal to vertical positions.
2.4 Post-erection Stage : After vertical placement, HY columns are anchored to the foundation using corrugated sleeves, grouting for strength. Temporary steel truss ties support the structure until portal frame action is complete.
