Asia's Oldest Skating Rink to Be Built Under ADB Project in Shimla

Shimla, Dec 15: The historic ice-skating rink could not undergo trials on Friday due to clouds preventing the formation of an ice layer. Consequently, the Ice Skating Club management was unable to initiate the trial process. The club will attempt the trials once the weather clears, with efforts to start the ice skating sessions within 2 to 4 days.

The Open-Air Artificial Skating Rink currently relies on natural ice, which is impacted by weather conditions. Efforts are now underway to transform the rink into an all-weather ice skating rink under the ADB-funded project. The Detailed Project Report (DPR) is ready, and the tendering process has commenced. It is anticipated that the renovation work will start in the coming months.

The project, estimated to cost INR 45 crore, aims to upgrade the rink to international standards. In addition to expanding the rink, the project includes the installation of a refrigeration plant and other facilities. The club secretary, Rajat Malhotra, appealed to the state government to expedite the commencement of work, envisioning that the upgraded rink would attract talented skaters and tourists year-round. Notably, the transformation aims to make the skating rink the oldest in Asia.

During a press conference, the organization’s secretary, Rajat Malhotra, Treasurer Ramnik Goyal, and members Pankaj Prabhakar, Abhay Dogra, Jay Dev Sharma, Sudip Mahajan, and Chetan Sood were present.