Pepsi-Cola Football Ground Upgrade Nears Completion with Modern Artificial Turf

The long-awaited upgrade of the Pepsi-Cola Football Ground in Kathmandu Metropolitan City–32 is making significant progress, with the project now entering its final phase. Once completed, the venue will feature a full-size 11-a-side artificial turf football field, providing a modern playing surface for local footballers and sports enthusiasts.

The installation of the artificial turf carpet has already been completed, leaving only the sand infill process before the ground is fully operational. According to officials involved in the project, the remaining work is expected to be completed within the next two months.

A Modern Football Facility for Kathmandu

The upgraded Pepsi-Cola Football Ground is part of Kathmandu Metropolitan City's broader initiative to improve sports infrastructure across the capital. The project is being fully funded by the metropolitan city with the goal of transforming dusty, uneven, and underutilized public grounds into high-quality football facilities that can be used throughout the year.

Artificial turf has become a preferred choice for football grounds because it provides a more consistent playing surface while requiring less maintenance than natural grass. It also allows matches and training sessions to continue even after rainfall.

Final Phase: Sand Infill Installation

Although the artificial turf carpet has already been laid, an important step still remains before the field is ready for use. The surface will undergo sand infill installation, a process that enhances both player safety and field performance.

The sand layer serves several important purposes:

• Improves player comfort by creating a softer playing surface.
• Reduces the risk of injuries during tackles, falls, and high-speed movements.
• Provides a more natural ball roll and bounce.
• Helps stabilize the artificial turf and extend its lifespan.
• Improves drainage, preventing water from accumulating after heavy rainfall.

Because the sand must settle properly into the turf fibers, the installation process takes additional time, especially during colder weather conditions.

Additional Infrastructure Improvements

The project extends beyond simply installing artificial turf. Kathmandu Metropolitan City is also developing supporting infrastructure to ensure the ground remains durable and functional for years to come.

The upgraded facility will include:

• Full-size 11-a-side artificial football field
• Walking tracks around the ground
• Proper drainage systems to prevent waterlogging
• Improved playing conditions for training and competitions

These additions will create a more accessible and professional sports environment for athletes, local clubs, schools, and the surrounding community.

Part of a Larger Sports Development Initiative

The Pepsi-Cola Football Ground is one of six football grounds being upgraded under Kathmandu Metropolitan City's sports infrastructure development program launched during the fiscal year 2081/82.

The initiative aims to replace dusty and poorly maintained playing fields with modern artificial turf facilities that can support football development across the city.

Alongside Pepsi-Cola, similar football ground upgrades are currently underway at:

• Bansbari
• Nayabazar Social Ground
• Bagmati Corridor, Balkhu
• Ganeshthan, Chabahil
• Another designated football ground under the same project

All six projects are being constructed under a single contract awarded to JSS/SM JV, Gyaneshwor, with a total project investment of approximately NPR 68 million.

Boosting Football Development in Kathmandu

The modernization of community football grounds reflects Kathmandu Metropolitan City's growing investment in sports infrastructure. High-quality playing surfaces not only improve the football experience for local players but also create opportunities to host community tournaments, youth competitions, football academies, and training programs throughout the year.

Once completed, the Pepsi-Cola Football Ground is expected to become one of the capital's most modern public football facilities, providing a safe, durable, and professional-quality venue for thousands of football enthusiasts.

As work enters its final stage, local players can look forward to enjoying a world-class artificial turf ground that will support the continued growth of football in Kathmandu.