Tight security arrangement for Kochi ODI

A foolproof security arrangements have been made around the recently refurbished Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium in Kochi, which will host the second ODI between India and England, a top police official said.

Inspector General of Police (IG) K Padmakumar on Sunday visited the stadium along with other top police officials and Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) secretary T C Mathew and saw the preparations, which were in the final stages.

The security would be taken care by police force both inside and outside the stadium during the match, Padmakumar said.

Sniffer dogs, anti-sabotage checking and bomb squad would conduct frequent checking inside the stadium, he said, adding, as part of integrated security system, about 50 cameras would be installed at the stadium.

As many as 2000 policemen, including four superintendent of police, 24 deputy superintendent of police, 50 circle inspectors and about 300 sub-inspectors would supervise the security arrangements during the match, he said.

The traffic management was going to be a challenge since there will be an increase of 25 to 30 per cent vehicles in view of the Sabarimala Makaravilakku festival. The Ayyappa devotees would be returning to their home after the makara vilaku on Monday, he said.

The spectators could carry drinking water inside the stadium, he said, adding that they should avoid carrying large carry bags to the venue.