A stampede-like situation unfolded outside Barabati Stadium on Wednesday (January 5) as thousands of cricket enthusiasts scrambled to purchase offline tickets for Sunday's India-England ODI match, reports Odisha TV. Emergency response Police were forced to deploy water cannons to control the surging crowd that had begun gathering since Tuesday (February 4) night. The situation escalated when ticket sales commenced at 9 am Wednesday, prompting authorities to implement emergency crowd control measures. Ticket distribution crisis The chaos emerged despite an earlier online sale that began on February 2. The physical ticket counter was opened as an alternative for fans who failed to secure tickets through digital platforms. Counter sales are scheduled for February 5 and 6. Infrastructure challenges According to Odisha TV, the situation worsened due to inadequate crowd management infrastructure. Emergency exits had to be created by dismantling bamboo barricades following public complaints about insufficient facilities. Medical emergencies The lack of basic amenities resulted in multiple medical emergencies, with reports indicating that several individuals required hospitalisation due to dehydration and discomfort in the crowded environment. Official response Cuttack Deputy Commissioner of Police Jagmohan Meena, speaking to Odisha TV, said: "We have sped up the ticket sale so people can exit faster. We aim to clear the area within half an hour. I ask everyone to remain patient as many have been queuing since midnight. We have also requested water supply for those waiting in line." Match significance The upcoming fixture marks Cuttack's return to international cricket after nearly three years, with the venue's last international match being a T20I against South Africa in 2022. The stadium last hosted these teams in 2019 during an ODI against West Indies. Current situation Local authorities, including the DCP and multiple platoon forces, remain on high alert to monitor the situation. Officials have urged the public to maintain calm during the ongoing ticket distribution process.Original Article