India-SA T20I at Barabati stadium: Odisha top cop reviews security arrangements

Ahead of the crucial India-South Africa T20I match at Barabati stadium, the Odisha Director General (DG) Of Police Sunil Bansal and other senior officials of Commissionerate Police took stock of the security arrangements at the ground on Friday.

Twin City Police Commissioner Saumendra Priyadarshi, ADG (Law & Order), Cuttack Collector and DCP were also present at the stadium today.

DGP Sunil Bansal said, “All the arrangements have been made as far as security and other aspects are concerned. The preparations to make necessary arrangements had started one month back by holding coordination meetings with all the stakeholders.”

Bansal said adequate number of police force has been mobilised and expressed hope to conduct the match without any hassles. “We urge the spectators to follow the guidelines regarding entry and exit routes and other issues,” he added.

It is pertinent to mention here that a security mock drill was conducted for the first time ahead of the international match at Barabati stadium recently. Already the tickets for the upcoming match have been sold out.

Cuttack Collector Bhawani Shankar Chayni said, “A large number of VIPs, dignitaries are expected to visit Barabati on the match day on June 12. Today, we conducted a review of the sitting and arrangements. As CM has been invited, he may turn up at the event. However, we are yet to receive any official communication in this regard.”

According to the Collector, there will be no parking-related issues as adequate space in upper and lower Bali Yatra ground near Barabati stadium has been made of the parking of vehicles.

Twin City Police Commissioner, Saumendra Priyadarshi said, "62 platoons of police force to be deployed for India-South Africa T20I match. 8 DCPs, 4 Addl DCPs, 200 officers will be in charge of the entire security arrangements. Special parking arrangements made for visitors at five different places."