3 days ago
RCB's home M. Chinnaswamy stadium declared 'unsafe' for large-scale events
Justice John Michael D'Cumha commission, which was appointed by the Karnataka government has deemed M. Chinnaswamy stadium 'unsafe' for large-scale events read more
A still of capacity crowd at the M. Chinnaswamy stadium. AFP
As per a finding made by Justice John Michael D'Cumha commission, the iconic M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru is incapable of hosting large-scale events safely. The commission was appointed by the Karnataka government to investigate the stampede that caused the death of 11 individuals and injured more than 50 during RCB's victory celebrations.
The commission's report deemed the stadium's 'design and structure' inherently 'unsuitable and unsafe' for large crowds, warning that hosting high-attendance events there would pose 'unacceptable risks' to public safety, traffic, and emergency response.
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Citing 'systematic limitations', the commission has also 'strongly recommended' that large-scale events be relocated to venues that are 'better suited' to handle significant crowds. 'Any future venue should adhere to international standards,' the report stated.
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The commission strongly advised relocating large-scale events to more suitable venues, emphasising that future venues should meet international standards to handle crowds safely.
The venue's future events are now uncertain, particularly with high-profile matches like the Women's ODI World Cup scheduled. As a temporary solution, the KSCA has decided to hold the upcoming Maharaja Trophy behind closed doors.
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Justice John Michael D'Cumha commission's findings
The report outlined several key requirements that the Chinnaswamy Stadium lack. The stadium can be improved to provide, 'purpose-built queuing and circulation areas separated from public roads, sufficient entry and exit gates to manage mass ingress and egress, integrated access to public transport and nearby tourist hubs, comprehensive emergency evacuation plans in line with global safety norms and adequate parking and drop-off facilities to accommodate large volumes of attendees'.
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Brief about M. Chinnaswamy stadium
Initially called the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA), the M. Chinnaswamy stadium was established in 1969. It is named after M. Chinnaswamy, a prominent figure in Karnataka cricket. Having hosted its first Test match in 1974 and becoming the home ground for the Karnataka cricket team and IPL outfit Royal Challengers Bengaluru, the venue holds historic importance.