Chief Secretary Shri Vikas Sheel Takes Charge of Preparations, Issues Strict Directives on Security and Facilities

Raipur/ The State administration has geared up for the successful organization of the upcoming Indian Premier League T20 matches scheduled to be held on May 10 and 13 at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium in Nava Raipur. Chief Secretary Shri Vikasheel on Wednesday chaired a high-level review meeting with senior officials from various departments at Mahanadi Bhawan and issued detailed instructions to ensure flawless arrangements. Following these directives, the administration is fully prepared to host this major cricketing event and provide spectators with a safe and enjoyable experience.

*Match Schedule*

On May 10, 2026, Royal Challengers Bengaluru will face Mumbai Indians, while on May 13, 2026, Royal Challengers Bengaluru will take on Kolkata Knight Riders.

*Special Focus on Security and Traffic Management*

Chief Secretary Shri Vikasheel emphasized that the safety of thousands of spectators and smooth traffic management are the administration’s top priorities. In view of the large influx of visitors arriving in Raipur after online ticket bookings, the Police Commissioner, Raipur has been directed to prepare a detailed action plan. A dense network of CCTV cameras will be installed in parking areas and around the stadium. Barricading and parking management will be jointly handled by the police, NRDA, and the Board of Control for Cricket in India.

*Emergency Services*

Dedicated emergency routes will be marked for fire brigades and ambulances to ensure immediate response in case of any contingency. For smooth coordination, a high-level executive committee has been constituted under the chairmanship of the Collector, Raipur. It includes the Superintendent of Police (Rural), Municipal Commissioner, Director (Sports and Youth Welfare), Regional Transport Officer (RTO), CEO of NRDA, and other senior officials. While the overall responsibility rests with the Board of Control for Cricket in India and the Chhattisgarh State Cricket Association, the administration will extend full support in arranging drinking water, electricity, roads, and healthcare services.

*Availability of Basic Facilities*

The Public Health Engineering (PHE) Department has been tasked with ensuring uninterrupted and adequate water supply at the stadium. The power department, including Chhattisgarh State Power Distribution Company Limited, has been directed to ensure uninterrupted electricity during the matches.

The meeting was attended by PWD Secretary Dr. Kamalpreet Singh, PHE Secretary Shri Mohammad Qaiser Abdul Haq, Sports Secretary Shri Yashwant Kumar, Collector Raipur Shri Gaurav Singh, and senior officials from police, energy, transport, tourism, and CSPDCL. Representatives from the Board of Control for Cricket in India and the Chhattisgarh State Cricket Association also shared updates on their preparations.