In a city known for its scorching summers and bustling urban sprawl, a frosty revolution is underway. The Delhi Development Authority (DDA) has officially announced the construction of the capital’s first-ever international-standard ice-skating rink, set to open in Sector-23, Dwarka. This landmark project promises to transform Delhi’s recreational landscape and introduce residents to the thrill of winter sports—right in their backyard.
A World-Class Facility in the Heart of Dwarka
Spanning 4,200 square meters, the upcoming rink will feature a 60m x 30m ice surface, designed to host a range of winter sports including:
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Ice skating
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Ice hockey
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Figure skating
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Curling
The facility will be developed within the cloverleaf of the Dwarka Sports Complex, strategically located near the Dwarka Expressway, Urban Extension Road, and the IGI Airport tunnel leading to Terminal 3. This prime location ensures easy access for residents across the National Capital Region.
“This is a game-changer for Delhi’s sports infrastructure. We’re not just building a rink—we’re building a new culture of winter sports,” said a senior DDA official.
Why Ice in Delhi?
The initiative stems from a directive by Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena, who emphasized the growing interest in niche sports like ice hockey and curling across India. Recognizing the lack of dedicated infrastructure in the capital, the DDA moved swiftly to conceptualize and execute this ambitious project.
“Spaces for enthusiasts to train, participate, and host events in ice sports are virtually nonexistent in Delhi. This rink will fill that gap,” the DDA stated.
The project also aligns with broader efforts to develop Dwarka as a modern, self-sustained sub-city, while expanding Delhi’s portfolio of indoor recreational facilities.
Construction & Collaboration
The DDA has finalized a contractor through a competitive bidding process, and the site has already been handed over. The rink will be developed on a 15-year license fee basis, with the selected agency expected to collaborate with international partners via a joint venture or special purpose vehicle (SPV).
Plans include:
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Spectator seating
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Changing rooms
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Auxiliary service infrastructure
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Accessibility features for all age groups and skill levels
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Digital ticketing and scheduling systems
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Interactive displays for public engagement
“We want this to be a space that’s both functional for athletes and fun for families,” said a project architect involved in the design phase.
A Climate-Controlled Escape
Beyond sports, the rink will serve as a climate-controlled indoor escape, offering Delhiites a refreshing break from the city’s intense heat. It’s a unique addition to the capital’s recreational offerings, joining other offbeat initiatives like hot air balloon rides recently announced by the DDA.
“Delhi’s long summers make indoor winter sports not just novel, but necessary,” said a spokesperson from the DDA.
Building a Winter Sports Ecosystem
The rink is expected to catalyze interest in winter sports across India, providing a venue for training, competitions, and public engagement. It could also pave the way for Delhi to host national and international ice-sporting events, boosting tourism and sports development.
“This is more than a rink—it’s a launchpad for India’s winter sports future,” said a sports consultant advising the DDA.
Sources: NDTV Travel, India TV News, Indian Express, MSN News, Hindustan Times
