In what should boost the development of sports in Bhutan, a number of multi-sports halls will be constructed around the country.

The ground breaking ceremony for one in Thimphu took place recently.

Another in Phuentsholing will be completed by the end of this year. Three more dzongkhags will get one each. One already exists in Trashigang.

This is welcome news. We are in need of more such sports infrastructure in the country, especially those built to international standards.

The multi-sports halls will provide an international standard venue in which to hold basketball, volleyball, and badminton trainings and tournaments, among others.

Undoubtedly, this will further promote the popularity of a sports culture, and also allow for a more professional level of training and atmosphere to be provided for our local and national teams.

Such international standard multi-sports complexes will also mean we can start holding regional tournaments. Holding regional tournaments will mean more visitors and revenue for the country.

It will also mean more interaction with athletes and other sports officials from other countries, which can only build new relationships and enhance cooperation.

Undoubtedly there will also be more recognition for the country in the sports world both as a host and a participant. This will be another step up the ladder in developing sports in the country.

With Bhutan rapidly developing, a sedentary lifestyle is creeping in and beginning to show. Obesity, diabetes, and other lifestyle related afflictions are affecting us.

It is important that besides raising awareness, such sports infrastructure are available to the public.

This means providing easy and affordable access to the schools, colleges, universities, other organisations and the general public.

It is also equally important that a sense of ownership is instilled in those who use these sports infrastructure. We can achieve this through awareness raising and membership schemes and fees.

Through that we can also perhaps sustainably maintain the infrastructure.

The multi-sports complexes will complement the government’s open air gyms and artificial turfs, among others, being developed nationwide.

We are moving in the right direction.