Reply: I have on several occasions, informed the House on the deplorable state of our sports infrastructures. The Anjalay Coopen Stadium is one prime example. It is worth noting that the last major renovation works at the stadium dates back to 2019 in the context of the Indian Ocean Islands Games. After the Games, the stadium was heavily neglected, if not abandoned. I am informed by the MSC that the stadium is not operational since February 2024 due to, inter alia, the following reasons – (a) Heavy water leakage on the Grand stand; (b) Absence of Fire Certificate due to faulty fire alarm system coupled with defective fire hose reels and fire-fighting equipment; (c) Damaged bucket seats and changing rooms being out of order; (d) Broken tiles; (e) Damaged false ceilings; (f) Flaking and cracking paints, and

159 (g) Pigeon infestation. Following a site visit I effected on 28 November 2024, I expressed my concern on the state of the stadium and gave directives to identify savings and expedite renovation for the operationalisation thereof. Following surveys conducted by my Ministry, it was decided to proceed with the upgrading in phase wise manner. Hence in May 2025, Phase I of the renovation works started. A contract for an amount of Rs13 million was awarded for the following upgrading works on the Grand stand – (a) Removal and fixing of new tiles to damaged existing tiles at corridor and changing rooms; (b) Repair to spalled concrete; (c) Internal and external painting works to front stadium block. (d) Application of floor dressing paint where required; (e) Replace damaged false ceiling, and (f) Removal of wooden ducting. The works started on 08 May 2025 and are expected to be completed by early next year. A sum of Rs20.4 million was allotted in the current budget and same is being used for the upgrading works, including the implementation of anti-bird systems. This system comprises the installation of bird netting, bird deterrent devices and repellents. Bids were launched on 18 November 2025 and works are expected to start by February 2026. The scope of work for the installation of a new fire alarm system has been finalised. Similarly, the scope for water proofing and provision of new bucket seats on the main stand has been defined. Tender documents for both projects are in preparation. Although, the Anjalay Coopen Stadium is not operational, routine tasks like cleaning and watchmanship are catered in-house by my Ministry. The monthly average cost, including salaries, overtime, watchmanship and utilities bills amount to some Rs900,000. CAESAREAN SECTION BIRTHS – AGE RANGE & RATIO – REMEDIAL MEASURES