Imphal Gears Up for the 134th Durand Cup Opening Spectacle

Imphal, Manipur – The air in Imphal is thick with excitement as the city puts the final touches on preparations for the 134th edition of the Durand Cup, 2025. This historic football tournament is set to kick off its Imphal leg on July 30 at the esteemed Khuman Lampak Main Stadium, promising a vibrant display of sportsmanship and a much-needed return of major sporting events to the region. The tournament’s Imphal segment will run until August 12, culminating in an eagerly awaited final match.

A Symbol of Renewal: The Durand Cup Imphal

• This year’s Durand Cup holds a special significance for Manipur. Dr. Mayengbam Veto Singh, Director of Youth Affairs & Sports (YAS), highlighted that it marks the first major sporting event in the state since the challenging period of the COVID-19 lockdown and the ongoing unrest that commenced in May 2023.
• The tournament is envisioned as more than just a series of football matches; it’s a powerful symbol of revival, aiming to rekindle the spirit of sportsmanship and usher in a wave of positivity across the state through the Durand Cup Imphal.

Matches and Teams: The Durand Cup Imphal Schedule

• Football enthusiasts in Imphal can look forward to six thrilling matches. These games are scheduled for July 30, August 1, August 4, August 7, and August 10, all leading up to the grand final on August 12.
• The Imphal leg will feature four formidable teams vying for supremacy:
  • Real Kashmir FC
  • Indian Navy Football Team
  • NEROCA FC
  • TRAU FC

Ensuring a Seamless Durand Cup Imphal Experience

• Extensive and meticulous preparations have been undertaken through a collaborative effort involving the YAS Department, the Indian Army, and various other government agencies.
• To oversee the monumental task, a high-level Steering Committee, led by the Chief Secretary, and an Organising Committee, under the YAS Secretary, have been established.
• Further streamlining operations, no fewer than 17 sub-committees have been formed. These committees are diligently managing a wide array of logistical needs, including traffic management, fire safety protocols, and crucial medical response teams, all vital for a successful Durand Cup Imphal.
• Addressing concerns regarding crowd management, a sophisticated color-coded pass and seating system is being implemented. This initiative aims to prevent past issues of overcrowding and ensure a smooth flow of spectators.
• In a move to alleviate parking woes, designated parking zones have been meticulously arranged, a result of close collaboration between traffic and civil police departments.

A Call for Public Cooperation

• Dr. Mayengbam Veto Singh has extended a heartfelt appeal to the public, urging their support and cooperation throughout the tournament. Their collective effort is crucial to ensure the smooth conduct and resounding success of the Durand Cup Imphal.
• The 134th Durand Cup promises to be a memorable event, not just for the exhilarating football action but for its profound message of resilience and unity in Manipur.