Questions raised over Kochi stadium renovation: MP Hibi Eden cites dubious financial dealings

Kochi: MP Hibi Eden has alleged that dubious financial transactions had taken place under the guise of a campaign claiming that the Argentina football team would arrive in Kochi. He also said that the renovation works of the Kochi Stadium involved questionable dealings. Hibi challenged the authorities to release the contract entered between the Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) and the sponsor for demolishing and rebuilding the stadium.

“The future of Kochi Stadium is now uncertain. Cricket has already disappeared from here. Reports that Kerala Blasters might also leave Kochi are worrying. The rent paid by Kerala Blasters for using the stadium as their home ground was the major source of income for the GCDA. Now, the stadium is in a state of uncertainty,” said Hibi Eden.

He also questioned the eligibility of the companies undertaking the construction work. “All the trees around the stadium have been cut down. Usually, when roadside trees are removed, local bodies impose several conditions. The concerned authorities must clarify whether these norms were followed,” he added.

Hibi further demanded to know where the agreement between the GCDA and the sponsor is and under whose supervision the contractual works are being carried out.