RCB Commits ₹4.5 Crore to AI-Powered Crowd Safety Overhaul at Chinnaswamy
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have stepped up with a bold initiative to address persistent crowd safety concerns at the iconic M. Chinnaswamy Stadium ahead of IPL 2026.
In a proactive move following last year's tragic stampede during their IPL 2025 victory celebrations—which claimed 11 lives and raised serious questions about the venue's suitability—Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have formally proposed installing 300 to 350 AI-enabled surveillance cameras at Bengaluru's M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. The franchise has partnered with Gurugram-based technology firm Staqu, known for its expertise in facial recognition and intelligent video analytics, to deploy this state-of-the-art system aimed at transforming crowd management.
The proposal, communicated to the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA), emphasizes real-time monitoring of crowd movement, disciplined queueing, unauthorized access detection through entry/exit tracking, and faster incident response. RCB has pledged to cover the entire one-time installation cost, estimated at approximately ₹4.5 crore, underscoring their commitment under the "RCB CARES" program focused on fan welfare and community safety. This investment is designed to empower KSCA officials and law enforcement with actionable data for proactive decision-making, potentially setting a new benchmark for stadium security in India.
The initiative comes amid ongoing uncertainty over whether Chinnaswamy will host RCB's IPL 2026 home matches. The stadium has not staged competitive cricket since the June 2025 incident, and clearance depends on implementing recommendations from the Michael D'Cunha Commission report, which highlighted safety shortcomings for large gatherings. While RCB explores contingency venues like DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai and Raipur's Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh Stadium, this AI upgrade could pave the way for the team's long-term return to their traditional home ground.
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Fans and stakeholders have welcomed the step as a positive signal of accountability and innovation from the defending champions. If approved and implemented swiftly, the technology could not only resolve immediate crowd issues but also restore confidence for high-profile events at Chinnaswamy, ensuring a safer, more seamless matchday experience in the future. A final decision on the venue for IPL 2026 home games is anticipated soon.
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