Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara has praised Bengaluru City Police for their well-coordinated security and crowd management during the ongoing IPL 2026 matches at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium.
The appreciation came during an event held at the Police Commissioner’s office.
Lessons from 2025 tragedy
The improved arrangements follow the tragic stampede on June 4, 2025, during Royal Challengers Bengaluru victory celebrations, which claimed 11 lives and left over 30 injured.
After the incident, cricket events were temporarily restricted at the stadium before being allowed again this year following reforms.
Extensive planning and coordination
Officials said police undertook over three months of planning, holding consultations with key stakeholders including the Karnataka State Cricket Association, RCB and event partners.
Continuous reviews after each match helped refine arrangements.
Key improvements introduced
Authorities implemented several measures to ensure safety:
- Integration of metro services with match schedules, easing travel for nearly 20,000 spectators per game
- Strategic traffic planning to keep key routes like Queens Road congestion-free
- QR-based digital ticketing with time-bound access to prevent misuse and black marketing
- Deployment of over 500 CCTV cameras and drone surveillance
- Use of AI-based crowd analytics for real-time monitoring
Enhanced crowd and emergency systems
Structured entry systems, holding areas and improved gate infrastructure ensured smoother movement of fans.
Emergency preparedness was strengthened with ambulances, medical centres and clear evacuation protocols.
Strict enforcement
Police also acted against illegal activities, including promptly solving a mobile theft case registered during a match