We have also asked FIFA for advice.
Surabaya, E Java (ANTARA) - Access for persons with disabilities at the Gelora Bung Tomo (GBT) Stadium, Surabaya City, East Java, will be improved ahead of the implementation of FIFA U-20 World Cup from May 20 to June 11, 2023.

Head of the Surabaya City Culture, Youth, Sports, and Tourism Office Wiwiek Widayati stated here on Friday that one of the improvements that would be made is relocating the special lane for spectators with disabilities.

"We will propose to the Public Works and Public Housing (PUPR) Ministry and FIFA to relocate the lane for disabled spectator. The relocation aims to facilitate access for disabled spectators, who will watch the U-20 World Cup," she noted.

Currently, access for people with disabilities in the stadium is located at the spectator lanes of Gates 10, 11, 13 and 14.

The lane is planned to be moved to Gate 1 that heads straight to the spectator stands area.

"The Gate 1 is close to the Main Gate, and the access is very easy. Thus, spectators with disabilities can more easily enter (the stadium) through Gate 1," the office head stated.

Furthermore, access to the grandstand from Gate 1 is more sloping as compared to access from Gates 10, 11, 13, and 14, she noted.

Widayati stated that access relocation is still in the planning stage.

"We are currently finalizing the concept and planning (for the renovation). We have also asked FIFA for advice," she stated.

After the concept was approved by FIFA, the Surabaya city government will coordinate with the PUPR Ministry regarding the implementation of the renovation project, Widayati remarked.

"We will further discuss the relocation of the disability access with the PUPR Ministry, whether the implementation of the project will be carried out by the city government or PUPR Ministry," she noted.

She stated that the improvements made, so far, at the GBT Stadium were only minor renovations.

The office head remarked that after a meeting on January 12, 2023, FIFA only gave several inputs for the revitalization of the stadium, so it will comply with international standards.

"Hopefully, the minor work can be (completed) on target, (and it will be carried out) starting January, (and in) March, it should be completed. (The suggestions made by FIFA) include the work on broadcasting facility and pitch maintenance, only those two points," she added.

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Translator: Abdul Hakim, Uyu Liman
Editor: Sri Haryati
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