Cuttack Gears Up for India-South Africa T20 Match: Security Measures in Place

Robust Security for Upcoming T20 Match

Cuttack: In preparation for the T20 International cricket match between India and South Africa at Barabati Stadium on December 9, the Odisha Police have established comprehensive security protocols. To safeguard both players and fans, more than 70 police platoons will be deployed as part of the extensive security strategy. This includes nine Additional Superintendents of Police, 40 Deputy Superintendents, 65 Inspectors, 325 Sub-Inspectors, 38 Constables, 208 Auxiliary Police Constables, and 73 female constables.

Authorities have confirmed that one unit of the Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) and two teams from the Special Tactical Unit (STU) will be on standby for any emergencies. Their responsibilities will encompass stadium security, traffic management, and crowd control. Security measures will extend to all areas of player movement, including the airport, team accommodations, the stadium, and transit routes. Director General of Police YB Khurania has instructed officials to implement foolproof security throughout the event. Teams are expected to arrive in Bhubaneswar on December 7 and will conduct practice sessions at Barabati Stadium on December 8. Ticket sales are set to commence at 10 AM on Friday.

Given the high public interest in witnessing the Indian players in action, police anticipate large crowds at ticket counters and have devised special strategies for crowd management and orderly ticket sales. A coordination meeting led by Cuttack's Deputy Commissioner of Police, Rishikesh Khilari, took place on Thursday at Barabati Stadium to assess the arrangements, where officers were directed to ensure a well-organized and incident-free event. Officials have stated that police units will remain vigilant to avert any potential disturbances during the gathering of thousands of cricket enthusiasts.