Bengaluru's Chinnaswamy Stadium Cleared to Host IPL and International Matches

The Karnataka government has granted the Karnataka State Cricket Association permission to host international and IPL matches at Bengaluru's M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. This comes after cricket was suspended at the venue following a deadly stampede during an IPL celebration in June 2023. The permission is conditional, and the KSCA has submitted a compliance roadmap, including new safety measures. A key initiative is the installation of 300-350 AI-enabled cameras, funded by RCB, to enhance real-time crowd monitoring and security.

Key Points: Chinnaswamy Stadium Gets Green Light for IPL, International Cricket

  • Government grants conditional permission
  • Follows 2023 fatal stampede
  • RCB to install AI security cameras
  • Enhanced crowd management planned
2 min read

Karnataka govt grants permission to host international and IPL matches at Bengaluru's Chinnaswamy stadium

Karnataka government permits KSCA to host matches at Chinnaswamy Stadium after stampede, with new AI security measures from RCB.

"KSCA is confident of fulfilling all the stipulated conditions - Official Statement"

Bengaluru, January 17

The Karnataka Government on Saturday granted permission to Bengaluru's iconic M Chinnaswamy stadium to host international matches and Indian Premier League matches

In an official release, Vinay Mruthyunjaya, Official Spokesperson of the Karnataka State Cricket Association, said, "We are pleased to inform you that the Home Department, Government of Karnataka, has granted permission to the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) to host international and IPL matches at the iconic M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru."

However, the Board highlighted that the permission granted is subject to compliance with specific terms and conditions prescribed by the government and concerned authorities.

"The permission is subject to compliance with specific terms and conditions prescribed by the Government and the concerned Authorities. KSCA is confident of fulfilling all the stipulated conditions. The Association has already presented a detailed compliance roadmap before the Expert Review Committee and remains fully committed to implementing all safety, security, and crowd-management measures in letter and spirit," the statement added.

The development comes after the cricket at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium was suspended since June last year after 11 people died and several were injured in a stampede during Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) IPL title celebration.

Recently, in a formal communication to the KSCA, RCB proposed installing 300 to 350 AI-enabled cameras at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, according to a release.

The advanced surveillance technology will empower the KSCA and law enforcement agencies to efficiently manage crowd movement, ensure disciplined queueing, monitor unauthorised access through real-time tracking of entries and exits, and significantly enhance overall fan safety.

The solution leverages advanced analysis of video, audio and text data to accelerate investigations and enable faster, more accurate decision-making. Its real-time AI video analytics capability enables early detection of incidents such as violence, unauthorised access and intrusion, facilitating swift and effective law-enforcement response.RCB has further committed to bearing the entire one-time cost of this initiative, estimated at approximately Rs 4.5 crore, the release stated.

The integration of this advanced technology will elevate crowd management standards and reinforce a safe, secure and seamless matchday experience for all fans.

- ANI

Share this article:

Reader Comments

P
Priya S
While I'm happy matches are returning, we must not forget the lives lost last year. Permission "subject to conditions" is fine, but implementation is key. Will there be transparent audits of the crowd management plans? Safety should never be compromised for entertainment.
R
Rohit P
Finally! The stadium has been silent for too long. Big respect to RCB for footing the bill for the AI cameras - 4.5 crores is no small amount. This sets a good precedent for other stadiums in India. Can't wait to book tickets for the first IPL match back!
S
Sarah B
As someone who was at the stadium during the unfortunate incident, I welcome these technological upgrades. Real-time tracking and better queue management are much needed. However, technology is only an aid. Proper training of staff and clear communication with fans is equally important.
A
Arjun K
Good decision by the Karnataka government. The economic impact of not having matches was being felt by local businesses - hotels, restaurants, autos. Hope the "detailed compliance roadmap" includes better last-mile connectivity and parking plans. Bengaluru traffic plus match day is a nightmare!
K
Karthik V
The use of AI is impressive, but what about the basics? Are they increasing the number of exits, improving signage, and having enough medical booths? Fancy cameras won't help if there's a bottleneck at the gates. The proof will be in the pudding during the first high-attendance match.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50