Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) CEO Rajesh Menon revealed on Tuesday that the franchise has spent nearly INR 7 crore on improving crowd-management systems at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. The move follows last year’s tragic incident on June 4, when 11 fans lost their lives and several others sustained injuries in a stampede near the venue.
“We have invested approximately INR 7 crore towards enhancing crowd-management infrastructure, including multiple baggage scanners and command centres,” he said. “We have significantly strengthened crowd management measures. We have implemented AI-led CCTV solutions across the stadium, including inside the concourse and surrounding areas, powered by an AI tool called Jarvis.
“This system provides real-time alerts, including stand-specific crowd counts, to ensure better monitoring and control. These CCTV feeds will also be accessible to the Commissioner’s office for real-time monitoring.”
Compliance With Government and Court Guidelines
Menon emphasised that the franchise has adhered to the framework laid down by the Karnataka state government and the High Court. “We have worked to follow the SOPs provided by the court and ensure all protocols are in place,” he said. “These SOPs will be followed by both the franchise and the state association, with specific guidelines also in place for victory parades.”
He also pointed out amendments to certain clauses in the agreement involving the KSCA, BCCI and RCB. “Under the updated agreements between the BCCI, KSCA and RCB, the state association will serve as the lead organiser (not just as a venue provider) along with the franchise,” he said. “It will also implement the standard operating procedures, including emergency planning protocols, and indemnify any breach of the stadium agreement.”
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Renovation Measures and Matchday Facilities
Discussing further developments at the venue, Menon highlighted ongoing renovation work and improvements in fan accessibility. “The stadium will also see reworked entry, exit and fan movement protocols based on recommendations from local authorities,” he said. “Ticket holders will also be entitled to metro access on match days. Parking can be pre-booked, and all stadium gates will open four hours prior to the match.”
