Experts believe that even if work is taken up at a rapid pace, it will take at least a year for the project to see completion.

“The new cost has been estimated by the architect of the stadium Sunil Dey,” said MC Commissioner G S Ghuman.

The architect has reportedly not submitted any drawings of the ceiling for over two years but has assured to provide the technical details within a week so that work could be kicked off. For the installation of air conditioners, tenders would be invited soon.

The MC Commissioner confirmed the new cost and added that the estimates have to be approved by the Finance Committee.

“Without adding these facilities, the stadium will not be attractive. The department will easily recover the cost by selling the 90 shops being built within the stadium. It is only a matter of time before we restart the project,” added Ghuman.

The project, which was scheduled to be completed in 2004, was extended by another four years. Reason: delay in payments to the contractor by the department and now, non-supply of drawings of the ceiling by the architect.