RCB comes up with unique AI solution at Chinnaswamy Stadium for crowd management ahead of IPL 2026

The Rajat Patidar-led side made the proposal in an official communication to the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA).

"RCB has proposed the installation of 300 to 350 AI-enabled cameras at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium. RCB has further committed to bearing the entire one-time cost of this initiative, estimated at approximately Rs 4.5 crore," the franchise said in 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 franchise added.

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Why is Chinnaswamy not hosting IPL matches?

All cricketing gathering has been banned in M. Chinnaswamy Stadium after 11 fans were killed in a stampede outside the venue during RCB's trophy celebrations after the 18th edition of the tournament. 

A task force set up by the state government is expected to submit its report on Saturday after reviewing the safety upgrade work currently being carried out at the stadium.

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Stampede's investigation

The investigation found that poor crowd control was the main reason behind the deadly stampede on June 4, when a huge number of people gathered at the venue for RCB’s celebrations. According to the findings, RCB was held responsible for the chaos, as the franchise encouraged fans to turn up in large numbers without having the required permissions from civic authorities and the police.

RCB's financial compensation

Following the tragic incident, RCB announced financial compensation for the families of those who lost their lives and also launched a foundation aimed at staying connected with fans and supporting them.

"Staqu's state-of-the-art facial recognition technology and intelligent monitoring of objects, crowd, perimeters and vehicles has assisted many State Police forces in their regular monitoring and investigations," said RCB.

 

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

IPL 2026 schedule

Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 is scheduled to start from March 26, and the title decider will take place on May 31. As per the tournament's rules, defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru will play the tournament opener.