As Kanpur gears up to host the second Test between India and Bangladesh at Green Park Stadium from September 27, local authorities have implemented stringent security measures to ensure the safety of players and spectators. Both teams arrived on Tuesday, welcomed by a strong police presence and high-level security arrangements that will continue throughout the match.
Extensive Police Deployment for Team Safety
According to the Additional Commissioner of Police, Harish Chander, a total of 2,000 policemen have been stationed in and around the hotel where the players are staying, while over 1,000 officers are on duty at Green Park Stadium. The Indian and Bangladesh teams are staying at a five-star hotel just 1.5 kilometers away from the stadium, and authorities are leaving no stone unturned to ensure their safety.
The hotel and stadium have been divided into multiple security zones, each monitored by Deputy Commissioner-level officers to maintain close surveillance. These zones will be manned round the clock, ensuring maximum protection for the players and VVIP attendees. Central and state intelligence agencies, including the Intelligence Bureau (IB) and the State Task Force (STF), are working closely to prevent any threats during the event.
Security Protocols and Social Media Monitoring
Officials have taken measures to secure the teams, including asking players to strictly follow the laid-out guidelines. Players have been instructed to inform security officials in advance if they plan to leave the hotel premises. The security agencies are in continuous coordination to gather and share information, reducing the chances of any potential disruption.
In addition, a close watch is being maintained on social media platforms to prevent misinformation or threats that could disturb public peace. The authorities have warned that any individuals or groups trying to provoke unrest will face strict action.
Hindu Mahasabha Protest Sparks FIR
In a separate incident, members of the ‘Akhil Bharatiya Hindu Mahasabha’ conducted a protest near the Green Park Stadium, staging a ‘havan’ on the road as a symbolic act against alleged atrocities on Hindus in Bangladesh. Rakesh Mishra and 20 others from the group have been named in an FIR filed by the Kotwali police. The charges include unlawful assembly and obstructing a public way.
Traffic Changes and Event Management
As part of the preparations for the high-profile Test match, local authorities have also made temporary changes to traffic routes around the stadium. These modifications aim to streamline movement and avoid congestion during match days. Fans attending the game are advised to follow the revised traffic plan and cooperate with security measures.
Kanpur East Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), Shravan Kumar Singh, has been designated as the nodal officer for the event, overseeing all security-related aspects. His team, along with other high-ranking officers, will ensure that the match proceeds without any disturbances.
