RCB's 4.5 Crore Plan: Install 350 AI Cameras At Chinnaswamy For Crowd Control

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on Friday (January 16) said it has made a formal communication to the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) for the installation of 300 to 350 Artificial Intelligence (AI)-enabled cameras at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium for ‘crowd management’.

In a PR statement, the franchise said it has committed to bear the ‘entire one-time cost of this initiative, estimated at approximately ₹4.5 crore.’ For this, RCB has partnered with Gurugram-based Staqu, which uses what it calls a ‘state-of-the-art facial recognition technology’.

“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 statement said.

“RCB has partnered with Staqu, a technology company with a proven track record in enhancing public safety through automation and data-driven intelligence. 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. ”

The solution leverages advanced analysis of video, audio and text data to accelerate investigations and enable faster, more accurate decision-making. Its real-time AI video analytics capability enables early detection of incidents such as violence, unauthorised access and intrusion, facilitating swift and effective law-enforcement response. The integration of this advanced technology will elevate crowd management standards and reinforce a safe, secure and seamless matchday experience for all fans,” it added.

As of now, RCB are unlikely to play any home matches in IPL 2026 at the Chinnaswamy Stadium, their long-term home. Last year, the stadium was subject to one of the darkest days in Indian sporting history as 11 people died during a stampede for RCB’s victory parade.

A state government commission had, at the time, recommended that the ground was not fit for large gatherings. It led to the ground losing matches of the 2025 Women’s World Cup and the 2026 T20 World Cup.

For IPL 2026, RCB are expected to play some matches in Raipur and others at the MCA Stadium in Pune.