High security cover will be provided for the ICC World Cup match between India and England at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium here on Sunday.
Speaking to the press Friday afternoon, City Police Commissioner Shankar M. Bidari said: “There is no threat perception for this match. India and Great Britain have cordial ties and there is no ill-will, but we're not taking any chances. We have posted 2,000 policemen to cover the stadium. We request fans to occupy the seats early to avoid last-minute rush. The gates will be open from 10.30 a.m., four hours ahead of the game and that should help the public.”
Banned items
Mr. Bidari added that water bottles, shoulder bags, food containers, laptops, explosive material, knives, sharp objects, matches, cigarettes, alcohol and plastic covers will not be allowed into the stadium.
“We request the public to avoid cellphones as much as possible, but if it is inevitable we will allow them,” he said.
Last year on April 17, two minor explosions and the discovery of unexploded bombs around the ground during an Indian Premier League game had raised serious concerns about security at the venue.
Pre-emptive measures
Mr. Bidari countered this by saying adequate pre-emptive measures have been taken. “On April 17, we were focussed on security inside the ground but now we have extended it outside as well. We're also monitoring the situation within a one-km radius around the venue,” he said. He added that parking has been provided at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium and that the BMTC will run extra buses to clear the rush.
Later, England fast bowler Stuart Broad expressed satisfaction over the security arrangements for his team. “From the team's point of view, security has been excellent,” he said.
