The fervor of cricket, especially when it comes to a high-stakes match between India and Pakistan, is unparalleled. However, the upcoming ICC World Cup 2023 match between the arch-rivals in Ahmedabad demands not just sporting preparedness, but also stringent security measures. With this in mind, state DGP Vikas Sahay has informed that the police heads of several units throughout Gujarat are on alert mode.
Their primary focus is to maintain a tight vigil on potential anti-social elements and areas deemed sensitive, ensuring no unforeseen incidents disrupt the mega event.
Detailing the extensive security preparations, Sahay revealed that a formidable force of over 6,000 personnel will be positioned strategically in Ahmedabad. This massive assembly comprises members from the Gujarat police, the National Security Guard (NSG), Rapid Action Force (RAF), and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF). Their presence will be particularly dominant around the Narendra Modi Stadium in the Motera area.
Sahay explained that the security strategy rests on five pivotal pillars:
Ensuring the security of the stadium and its attendees.
Managing traffic and coordinating parking facilities.
Providing tight security coverage for the cricketing squads.
Keeping a close watch on any disruptive elements.
Guaranteeing the safety and security of the entire state.
Sahay emphasised the thorough preparations, stating, "The Gujarat police force is fully prepared to make sure that the cricketing event takes place without any trouble." He also highlighted the collaboration with specialized units like the Ahmedabad crime branch, Anti-Terrorist Squad, and Special Operations Group, underscoring their role in countering threats from anti-social elements or potential terrorists.
Furthermore, to ensure post-match safety, Sahay mentioned, "Since the match would end at around 10.30 pm, all the units of Gujarat police across the state have been directed to be on alert mode after 8 pm." In addition, the State Reserve Police (SRP) units, stationed at various parts of the state, have been primed for rapid deployment should an emergency arise.
"To avoid any untoward incident during or after the match, all the Superintendents of Police, Commissioners of Police and Range IGs of the entire state have been given instructions to keep a close watch on anti-social elements as well as sensitive areas. As the DGP, I want to assure people that adequate steps have been taken by Gujarat police in view of the match," Sahay concluded.
While the stadium boasts ample parking facilities, Sahay urged attendees to consider utilising the metro train service, citing its convenience with a station positioned directly opposite the stadium's entrance.
In a preceding security briefing on October 9, Ahmedabad's Commissioner of Police, G S Malik, shared that an impressive cadre of senior officers, including four senior IPS officers along with 21 DCP rank officers, will be on duty to oversee the security procedures during the match.
Moreover, in the event of chemical, biological, radiological, or nuclear (CBRN) emergencies, teams from both the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and NDRF will be present.
On a concerning note, the Ahmedabad crime branch recently apprehended an individual for allegedly transmitting a threat against the Narendra Modi Stadium. This follows last month's FIR against Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the leader of the proscribed outfit Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), for purportedly threatening to disrupt the Cricket World Cup event.
With these comprehensive measures in place, authorities aim to ensure that the sporting spectacle unfolds without any hitches, allowing fans to enjoy the game in a secure environment.
(With PTI inputs)
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