Bengaluru: With the clock ticking down to the Indian Premier League (IPL) season opener between defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), M Chinnaswamy Stadium is a hive of activity.Final touches are being given to a series of upgrades initiated in the aftermath of last June’s tragic stampede that claimed 11 lives following RCB’s maiden title celebrations. Safety and preparedness have taken centre stage in the lead-up to the new season.After multiple inspections by a govt-appointed expert committee, the first of two mandatory mock drills was conducted Monday. The exercise, which lasted a few hours, saw participation from all key govt agencies involved in granting match-day clearances, including the police, public works department (PWD), Greater Bengaluru Authority officials, and officers from the health and fire departments.Match-day scenarios were simulated with security personnel stationed across the venue. Baggage scanners were tested, and the stadium’s surveillance network — comprising 450 cameras, including 300 AI-powered units installed by RCB — was made fully operational.Authorities also reviewed logistical aspects such as the stadium’s limited internal parking capacity of 30 cars and the designated VIP drop-off zones.A second, more extensive, mock drill is scheduled for Thursday. Around 500 volunteers unfamiliar with the stadium layout will participate, replicating real spectator movement. This drill will test systems such as ticket scanning, facial recognition, real-time spectator count display boards, and the overall responsiveness of event staff.“As cricket returns to Chinnaswamy Stadium, KSCA (Karnataka State Cricket Association) will spare no effort in ensuring a safe and seamless experience for spectators. Govt agencies have worked tirelessly with us to adopt the necessary measures,” said KSCA secretary Santosh Menon.The revamped match-day experience will extend beyond the stadium. Traffic regulations will see significant changes, with the Queens Road stretch from Minsk Square closed for a few hours on match days. The main entrance on Queens Road will be restricted to team buses, VVIPs, and match officials; all other gates will open on Cubbon Road.As Bengaluru gears up for the return of IPL, the focus is firmly on ensuring the excitement of cricket is matched by a renewed commitment to safety.
