RCB propose AI surveillance at Chinnaswamy amid IPL 2026 uncertainty

Amid continuing uncertainty over whether the M Chinnaswamy Stadium will host IPL 2026 matches, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have proposed the installation of AI-enabled surveillance cameras at the venue as part of measures aimed at improving crowd management.

No competitive cricket has been held at the stadium since the stampede during RCB's title-winning celebrations on June 4, 2025, in which 11 people lost their lives. The State government recently denied permission to host Vijay Hazare Trophy matches at the venue, citing non-compliance with safety requirements.

In a formal communication to the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA), RCB have suggested installing between 300 and 350 AI-enabled cameras at the stadium. According to the proposal, the AI-enabled system would assist the KSCA and law-enforcement agencies in monitoring crowd movement, queueing and entry/exit points while also tracking unauthorised access in real time.

Permission to host matches at the stadium is contingent on the KSCA implementing the recommendations of the Michael D'Cunha Commission.

RCB have committed to bearing the entire one-time cost of the installation, estimated at approximately INR 4.5 crore.

A final decision on whether the defending champions will play their home matches at the Chinnaswamy Stadium is expected in the coming days. With clearance still pending, RCB have also been assessing contingency options for hosting their home matches outside Bengaluru, including in Pune.