Gujarat Eyes 2030 Commonwealth Games Infrastructure in Place
Gujarat has set its sights firmly on securing the prestigious 2030 Commonwealth Games (CWG), with Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar taking centre stage in this ambitious bid. While Ahmedabad has already garnered attention with its plans to host the 2036 Olympics, the state is now pivoting towards the 2030 CWG, leveraging its ongoing sports infrastructure development. High-level presentations have been made to the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) President, Chris Jenkins, with a formal Expression of Interest (EoI) slated for submission by March 2025.
The state’s push for the CWG bid highlights its strategic intent to be a global sports hub. During the meeting with Jenkins, senior officials presented the infrastructure developments that have already been initiated across key venues in Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar. A comprehensive analysis of past Commonwealth Games, such as the 2018 Gold Coast Games and the 2022 Birmingham Games, has informed the proposal, ensuring the state’s readiness in hosting such an event. The bid will go through various phases, with site visits expected between April and August 2025, culminating in the final bidding process in November 2025.
In the interim, Gujarat has outlined a host of sports venues that will serve as key sites for the 2030 CWG. These include the SVP Enclave for aquatics, boxing, and kabaddi, the Karai Sports Hub for athletics, and the Statue of Unity for beach volleyball and mountain cycling. Other significant venues include the Narendra Modi Stadium for cricket and the Mahatma Mandir for weightlifting and wrestling. This intricate web of sports facilities across the state underscores the government’s strategic planning and its commitment to supporting both regional and international sports events. The state is also preparing to host several international sporting events, such as the Asian Weightlifting Championships (2025), World Combat Games (2027, 2029), and the Under-20 World Athletics Championship (2028).
From a sustainability standpoint, Gujarat’s sports infrastructure development is a clear example of how urban planning can be aligned with the state’s broader environmental goals. The incorporation of multi-purpose venues and the focus on sustainable construction practices aim to reduce the ecological impact of these large-scale events. Moreover, the city’s commitment to eco-friendly transportation, waste management systems, and energy-efficient stadium designs ensures that Gujarat’s sports initiatives contribute positively to both the economy and the environment. As the state continues to expand its infrastructure, the legacy of these events will play a crucial role in shaping the future of sports in India and the region.
Gujarat’s bid for the 2030 Commonwealth Games is more than just about hosting a sporting event—it is an effort to showcase the state’s evolving status as a global sporting destination. With cutting-edge sports facilities, a growing tourism industry, and a sustainable approach to urban development, Gujarat is positioning itself as a strong contender for the 2030 CWG. If successful, this event will not only boost the state’s economy but also help solidify its reputation as a beacon of sports excellence and sustainability.
