Shillong, Mar 11: Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong on Friday informed the Assembly that the artificial turf at JN Stadium has been repaired and handed over to the sports department, after it was damaged during the official event for Meghalaya’s golden jubilee celebrations earlier this year.

A huge pandal was erected over the artificial turf at the JN Stadium and vehicles, including cranes, were parked over the turf to host the official State-sponsored programme to celebrate the 50 years of Meghalaya’s Statehood on January 21, 2022.

Replying to a cut motion moved by AITC legislator HM Shangpliang on the issue that drew public ire, Tynsong, replying on behalf of the Chief Minister in his absence, said, “Repairing work has been done and it has been handed over and the games can start any time there.”

He also added that the decision to host the official programme at the JN Stadium to mark the historic occasion was taken after due consultation with Sports department, Information and Public Relations, DC Shillong and Sports Associations.

Tynsong further informed that an amount of Rs 2 crore was marked for the celebration of the Meghalaya Day in the 12 districts of the state.

Earlier, moving the motion, Shangpliang attacked the government saying the turf was constructed with a lot of money invested for the footballers and other athletes and the Government could have used other ground or organised the event elsewhere.