A major development for sports infrastructure in Uttar Pradesh took place on Thursday, February 19, 2026. The state government officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) to build an international cricket stadium in Gorakhpur. The agreement was finalized in Lucknow in the presence of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. Indian Oil has committed ₹60 crore towards this project, marking a significant step for cricket enthusiasts in Eastern UP.
Where is the stadium located and when will it open?
The new international stadium will be constructed in Tal Nadaur, situated on the Gorakhpur-Varanasi route. The site is approximately 20 to 23 kilometers away from the city’s airport and railway station. The government has set a clear deadline for the project, with a target completion date of December 2027. Once finished, the stadium will be able to host 30,000 spectators, providing a massive platform for local talent and international matches.
Details on funding and facilities
This project is receiving strong financial support from major oil companies. While Indian Oil is contributing ₹60 crore, Bharat Petroleum and Hindustan Petroleum are providing ₹30 crore and ₹10 crore respectively. The total estimated cost of the project ranges between ₹339 crore and ₹393 crore. The facility will be built on 50 acres of land and will feature state-of-the-art amenities.
- Total Area: 50 acres (45 acres for main complex).
- Pitches: 7 main pitches and 4 practice pitches.
- Parking: Capacity for 1,500 vehicles.
- Extras: Modern dressing rooms and a high-tech media center.
