New Delhi: A gas cylinder exploded outside the main entrance of Narendra Modi Stadium just hours before the highly anticipated IPL 2025 final match between Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Punjab Kings. The incident occurred early in the morning near a food stall set on the pavement. It led to fear among nearby locals and early spectators.
Fortunately, since the explosion occurred in the morning, before majority of the fans arrived, a major tragedy was averted. Initial reports, however, suggested that negligence by the street food vendors may have led to the accident. Authorities quickly responded, cordoning off the area and initiating the investigation. Security have been tightened around the area, with bomb squads and disaster response teams that have been deployed at various locations round the stadium.
Despite the scare, the final match will go ahead as planned. A spectacular light show themed “Operation Sindoor” is planned as part of the IPL closing festivities. This event will honour the bravery of the Indian armed forces, especially those involved in Operation Sindoor and the martyrs of the recent Pahalgam attack. Shankar Mahadevan is set to deliver a special patriotic musical performance.
Special arrangement has also been made to ensure smooth commuting. BRTS buses and Ahmedabad Metro services will run until 12:30 pm. Over 100 city buses and 26 metro trains will operate along the two corridors to help manage the massive crowd expected from across India and abroad.
Roads surrounding the stadium will be closed from 2 pm till midnight for security concerns. Alternative routes have been issued to facilitate traffic movement.
Further updates on the situation is awaited. Officials, however, continue to monitor developments. It is expected that this resolution will be helpful in effectively managing crowd and other operations during the grand match.
