Karnataka government plans new 60,000-seater stadium in Bengaluru

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar announced that the state government has chalked out plans to help build a new stadium in Bengaluru with a seating capacity of 60,000. The initiative aims to ease congestion and improve crowd management during large-scale public events.

While the exact location has not yet been disclosed, Shivakumar confirmed that a suitable land parcel has been identified and that full details will be shared soon.

“We have finalised land for a new stadium in Bengaluru. The proposed capacity is 60,000 seats. More information will be shared shortly,” Shivakumar said to reporters.

The move comes in the wake of a tragic stampede during Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s (RCB) IPL 2025 victory celebrations near M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on June 4, which claimed 11 lives and left several others injured.

The incident triggered widespread outrage across the state, with strong criticism directed at authorities for inadequate crowd control. The Chinnaswamy Stadium, located in the heart of the city, has long been under strain during major cricket matches and public gatherings due to space constraints.

Although the stadium’s official capacity is 35,000, more than three lakh fans reportedly gathered around the venue during the RCB celebrations, far exceeding both official estimates and the capacity of the venue. A lack of adequate police personnel and limited preparation time contributed to the stampede, leading to a chaotic and deadly crush.

In the aftermath, the state government has taken disciplinary action which includes the suspension of several senior police officials, notably the Bengaluru Police Commissioner. The tragedy has sparked a political storm over administrative lapses and the need for better crowd management infrastructure.

“Kempegowda envisioned a world-class Bengaluru. With his vision as our inspiration, we are committed to making this city better,” Shivakumar added.