Shillong, August 25 : In response to public concerns about ticket sales and crowd management for the upcoming Durand Cup semi-final between Shillong Lajong FC and North East United FC, the Department of Sports and Youth Affairs, Government of Meghalaya, has issued a detailed statement.
The J.N. Stadium, with a capacity of approximately 15,000 seats, will have the first 4 rows of North/South stands and the first 2 rows of the East Stand kept unsold. This decision is aimed at ensuring safety and compliance with national football protocols while accommodating sponsor commitments and ensuring unobstructed views during athletic events.
All available tickets for the match have been sold out, reflecting the high demand. The Government has emphasized that minimal complimentary tickets were allocated to sponsors and the participating teams, with each team receiving 100 tickets in accordance with protocol.
The resale of tickets is strictly prohibited. The Government requests that any resale activity be reported to the Meghalaya Police. Official tickets are equipped with holograms to verify authenticity, and online purchasers must collect their tickets from U Soso Tham Auditorium.
No entry will be allowed near the stadium after 12 PM on August 26 for individuals without tickets. To accommodate fans, several fan parks will be set up across Shillong and nearby districts. The designated fan park locations include:
- Malki Sports Ground, Malki
- Madan Saw, Golf Links
- Madan-Heh Ground, Mawlai
- Police Point Parking Lot, Laitumkhrah
- Umpling, Mawarliang
- Madan Daimasi, Ladthalaboh, Jowai
- Pahamsyiem Ground, Nongpoh
- Patharkhmah Hr. Sec. School, Patharkhmah
- Nongstoin Playground, Nongstoin
Additionally, the match will be screened on large DIPR screens at Police Bazaar and PHC, Rynjah for those unable to attend the game in person.
