Mullanpur Stadium Prepares for IPL Qualifier and Eliminator Amid Heightened Security

As Mullanpur Stadium prepares to host the IPL Qualifier and Eliminator matches on March 29 and 30, Punjab Police have ramped up security measures in light of recent tensions between India and Pakistan. Officials assure fans that the matches will proceed as planned, with extensive preparations including mock drills and surveillance. Special Director General of Police Arpit Shukla has confirmed the deployment of over 2,500 personnel to ensure a safe environment for attendees. With excitement building, cricket fans from across the nation are expected to flock to the stadium for these crucial games.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 28, 2025, 22:09 IST

Security Measures in Place for Upcoming Matches

The Mullanpur stadium in Punjab is gearing up to host the Qualifier 1 and Eliminator matches on March 29 and 30. In response to the recent tensions between India and Pakistan following the tragic Pahalgam incident, Punjab Police have implemented stringent security measures both at the stadium and throughout the city.

Officials have reassured fans that the matches will proceed as scheduled, despite previous delays in the IPL due to military concerns. With a revised timetable, Mullanpur is expected to attract a large crowd from various parts of the country.

Police Assurance on Fan Safety

On Wednesday, Arpit Shukla, the Special Director General of Police (Law and Order), spoke to the media, emphasizing the significance of the upcoming matches. He stated,

“There are two very important matches at Mullanpur stadium tomorrow and day after tomorrow. There is a qualifier and an eliminator. People are coming from all corners of India. There is a lot of enthusiasm among the people.”

Shukla further confirmed the extensive security arrangements in place, noting,

“We have arranged for extensive security around the stadium and its periphery. Today, there is a review of it. Our police force is deployed — around 65 Gazetted officers and more than 2,500 personnel are on duty.”

Mock Drills and Surveillance for Enhanced Security

In preparation for the matches, police conducted mock drills on Tuesday and Wednesday to assess their readiness. Emergency response teams, bomb squads, and anti-sabotage units are on standby. Additionally, drones and CCTV cameras are being utilized for special surveillance, while traffic control teams are managing vehicle flow around the venue.

Shukla reassured fans of a secure match-day experience, stating,

“We will ensure that those who are coming do not face any kind of trouble. On the other hand, the security measures will be very strict.”

Civil Defence Drills Across Multiple States

The government is also conducting civil defence drills in Gujarat, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Jammu & Kashmir. These initiatives, launched after Operation Sindoor, aim to enhance emergency preparedness.

In notable matchups, Royal Challengers Bengaluru will take on Punjab Kings at Mullanpur this Thursday, while Gujarat Titans will face Mumbai Indians in the eliminator match on Friday.