Elaborate security arrangements for IPL in Kolkata

Kolkata, April 6 (IANS) CCTV cameras monitoring round-the-clock, strict vigil on movement around players’ dressing rooms with hundreds of cops posted in and around the stadium — the city police have put in place elaborate security arrangements for the eighth edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) that starts at the Eden Gardens here on Wednesday.

“We have made elaborate security arraignments for IPL. Besides deploying security personnel at team hotels, more than 5,000 cops would be stationed in and around the stadium during the matches,” joint commissioner of police Rajiv Mishra said.

Mishra said 12 teams of police personnel, each headed by a divisional officer, will be positioned inside as well as outside the stadium.

“Besides installing CCTV cameras across the stadium, nine watch towers have been put up at strategic locations,” said Mishra.

Following the arrest of six persons allegedly involved in an inter-state cricket betting racket from the city earlier this month, the police were also on guard conducting searches to tackle the menace.

Besides seven league games, the Eden will host the final match. The ground may also host a qualifier/eliminator depending upon the home team Kolkata Knight Riders’ progress to the knockouts of the tournament.