UNI
 
Chandigarh, Sep 16: The Punjab Cricket Association will provide improved amenities to the spectators, players and media (print, electronic and broadcasters), PCA president I S Bindra said here yesterday.

Former president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India, Mr Bindra said that barring a few portion of the 45,000-seating capacity PCA Stadium in Mohali, chairs were being installed even in the general blocks.

''Each chair will be numbered,'' disclosed PCA chief.

Better catering facilities, drinking water and more toilets would be provided in each block for the convenience of the spectators.

''The players' rooms have been separated from the VVIP block in the pavilion. It has been done on the advice of the ICC security officer who felt that movement in the VVIP block was obstructing the view of the players,'' said Mr Bindra.

''The seating capacity in the air-conditioned press box has been increased to 124 from 80. Already 124 journalists covering the ICC Trophy have been given accreditation. Similarly for radio commentary eight boxes have been prepared. Even for the live telecast, more spacious rooms will be provided,'' said Bindra.

A separate block for the non-covering journalists covering side stories has been constructed.

''The expansion and renovation plan at the PCA Stadium were the requirements for the Champions Trophy.

''Nothing can be frozen. The PCA is also growing. Providing more and better facilities are on the pattern of Australia, which is role model for the PCA,'' said Bindra.

The BCCI has hiked the subsidy to Rs 25 crore from Rs eight crore under its infrastructure development plan.

Regarding alleged illegal construction at the PCA Stadium, Mr Bindra said ''We had prepared and submitted the masterplan in 1993.

It was only after 10 long years, it has been pointed out the violations. Still we want to follow the government guidelines. We are prepared to pay the penalty if the Government thinks we had deviated from the master-plan. Howeer, nothing can remain frozen."