In a major embarrassment just months before it is scheduled to host crucial ICC Women’s ODI World Cup matches, Bengaluru’s iconic M Chinnaswamy Stadium has had its power supply disconnected by the Bangalore Electricity Supply Company Limited (Bescom). The Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) is already burdened after a chaotic stampede broke out outside the stadium while celebrating RCB’s maiden IPL title win.
Embarrassment for Chinnaswamy Stadium
According to India Today, the decision was taken after the stadium was found to be operating without a mandatory fire safety clearance—a Fire No Objection Certificate (Fire NOC). The stadium, which is set to host four key matches in the World Cup, including India’s fixtures against Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, and the all-important second semi-final, is now under scrutiny. This development not only puts the future of the venue in doubt for the World Cup but also deepens the administrative crisis looming over the KSCA.
As per regulations, public venues like stadiums must possess a valid Fire NOC to operate legally. Chinnaswamy Stadium, with a capacity of 35,000, failed to renew or secure this clearance, triggering action from the Karnataka Fire and Emergency Services Department. The Director General of Police recommended the power disconnection, which Bescom swiftly carried out. The KSCA, which leases the stadium from the state government, now faces urgent pressure to bring the stadium up to compliance standards.
A Fire NOC ensures that a venue is equipped with fire alarms, extinguishers, emergency exits, and evacuation protocols. Without this, large public gatherings pose a serious threat to safety, a concern that has become all the more critical after the June 4 stampede tragedy outside the stadium that left 11 dead and dozens injured during RCB’s IPL victory celebration.
