IND vs BAN: Questions rise around Kanpur Stadium’s safety

As the second Test match between India and Bangladesh approaches, serious safety concerns have emerged about one of the stands at the Kanpur Stadium. The Public Works Department (PWD) of Uttar Pradesh has deemed the structure unsafe, prompting organizers to take precautions and restrict the number of spectators for the game, which is set to begin on September 27.

The issue revolves around Balcony C, which has been identified as structurally unstable. According to reports, the balcony may not be able to withstand the weight of a fully packed crowd, and there is a real danger that it could collapse if filled to capacity. The PWD went as far as to warn that even if a small group of 50 people were to jump in the stand, it could cause a collapse.

In response to these warnings, the Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association (UPCA) has taken immediate action. Ankit Chatterjee, CEO of the UPCA, addressed the concerns, stating, “The PWD raised valid issues, and we’ve made the decision to limit ticket sales for Balcony C.” He further explained that only 1,700 tickets would be sold for the stand, which normally accommodates 4,800 spectators. “Repair work on the balcony is already underway, and it will continue for the next few days,” Chatterjee added.

This is not the only challenge facing the Kanpur Stadium as the second Test nears. The stadium’s floodlights have also become a source of concern, with several bulbs near the VIP section reportedly out of order. The issue with the lighting could disrupt play, especially if repairs are not completed before the match starts.

Lighting problems at the stadium have been a recurring issue, largely exacerbated by the heavy pollution in the area. Poor air quality reduces visibility during evening hours, and the malfunctioning floodlights only make matters worse.

In the lead-up to the second Test, the UPCA is working on both fronts — ensuring Balcony C is made safe and addressing the lighting issue — to avoid any disruptions during the match. Although these problems pose significant challenges, the association remains committed to maintaining safety and a smooth experience for players and spectators alike.

As the stadium undergoes last-minute repairs and adjustments, fans can expect a reduced crowd in the stands but hope that the game itself will proceed without further issues. With such high stakes on the line, ensuring the venue is safe and ready is now the top priority for the organizers.