Mangaluru’s Mangala Stadium to get Rs 4.5 crore makeover from October

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, Sep 15, 2026: The Mangala Stadium in Mangaluru is set for a major upgrade at an estimated cost of ₹4.5 crore, with development work scheduled to begin in October after the monsoon.

Former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah had announced a ₹3 crore grant for the stadium’s development during the Karnataka Kreedakoota held in Mangaluru last year. The allocation was also included in the state Budget. An additional ₹1.5 crore has now been sanctioned, taking the total project cost to ₹4.5 crore.

Dasara sports meet likely to be final event

Some events of the district-level Dasara Sports Meet, organised by the Department of Youth Empowerment and Sports, will be held at Mangala Stadium and are expected to conclude by the end of September.

With the monsoon expected to recede, the renovation work is likely to begin in October and continue for around three months.

Alternative venues to be used

Mangala Stadium normally hosts several school and college sports meets and events organised by various sports associations during October, November and December.

As the stadium will remain unavailable during the renovation, alternative venues may be used, including the South Kannada District Police Ground, Padavu Ground, University College Ground, Panambur Ground, Swaraj Maidan in Moodbidri and Mangaluru University’s sports ground at Konaje.

However, most of these venues do not have synthetic track facilities.

15-year-old synthetic track to be replaced

The existing synthetic track at Mangala Stadium is around 15 years old and has deteriorated due to prolonged exposure to rain, sunlight and wind. The track also becomes slippery during heavy rainfall and is affected by intense heat.

The existing drainage system is inadequate to effectively carry away rainwater, resulting in difficulties for athletes during training and affecting the conduct of sporting events.

As part of the redevelopment, the old synthetic track will be replaced and a new drainage system will be developed alongside it to prevent waterlogging. The upgraded facility is expected to enable Mangaluru to host national-level athletics events.

Field event facilities to be upgraded

The D-area beside the running track, used for events such as discus throw, javelin throw and shot put, will also be developed.

The long jump area will be upgraded as part of the project, along with other minor infrastructure improvements at the stadium.

Work scheduled from October

“The development of Mangala Stadium will begin with various works scheduled from October. The development will be carried out at an estimated cost of ₹4.5 crore. The stadium will not be available for sporting events during the construction period,” said Pradeep D’Souza, Deputy Director of the Department of Youth Empowerment and Sports.