Three-tier security in place for India-South Africa ODI in Vizag

All arrangements have been made for the much-awaited series-decider third One Day International (ODI) match between India and South Africa at Dr. YSR ACA VDCA International Cricket Stadium on Saturday.

Around 1,500 police personnel have been deployed for the match as part of bandobast. The stadium became a high-security zone on Friday as both teams arrived here for the practice. Dogs squad, bomb squad conducted checks.

Andhra Cricket Association (ACA) president Kesineni Sivanath and secretary Sana Satish Babu reviewed the arrangements. They checked the availability of essential amenities for the spectators, such as drinking water, toilets, medical facilities, and fire safety systems.

Special focus was laid on VIP and VVIP galleries, movement of dignitaries, and their security protocols. Instructions were issued to ensure complete coordination between ACA staff, other participating agencies, and the police.

Mr. Shivanath said that stringent security measures have been put in place.

Meanwhile, Police Commissioner Shankhabrata Bagchi conducted a meeting with the police personnel on deputation for the match and briefed them about the security protocol.

Spectators will be allowed inside the stadium three hours before the match begins. From the Visakhapatnam airport to the hotels where the players are staying, and the routes for their travel are under strict surveillance, with continuous monitoring by ROP teams, said Mr Bagchi.

Barricades have been put up around the stadium and ACP-level officers have been deployed at every entry gate. Ticket holders will be allowed inside through regulated queue lines after verification of tickets, he said.

He said that the stadium and surrounding areas have been divided into multiple security sectors, with three-tier security in place. Multi-storey buildings and rooftop areas around the stadium will be closely monitored.

Special teams will maintain strict vigilance to prevent thefts or other incidents inside the stadium. Traffic arrangements have been designed to ensure that vehicle movement is not disrupted, he said, adding that no outside food items or water bottles would be allowed inside the stadium.

“The entire stadium will be under CCTV surveillance. Any illegal activities, misconduct, or attempts to take selfies with players by crossing the permitted limits will invite strict legal action,” he said.

Designated parking lots were allotted to spectators. Traffic diversions and restrictions will come into effect from Saturday morning.