Ahmedabad Police Unveils Robust Security Blueprint: 6,000 Strong Force to Safeguard World Cup Final Spectacle

18-11-2023 : In preparation for the much-anticipated World Cup final between India and Australia at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on November 19, the Ahmedabad Police has announced an elaborate security deployment of over 6,000 personnel. Ahmedabad Commissioner of Police, GS Malik, revealed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Australian Deputy PM Richard Marles are expected to be among the distinguished attendees at the ICC Cricket World Cup grand finale.

Mr. Malik, addressing the media, outlined the comprehensive security arrangements involving Gujarat police, Rapid Action Force (RAF), home guards, and other units. Of the 6,000 personnel, approximately 3,000 will be stationed within the stadium, with the rest assigned to key locations such as hotels accommodating players and dignitaries. A company of RAF will be positioned inside the stadium, while another will be on duty outside.

A temporary command and control center with a wireless network has been established inside the venue to facilitate communication. Four senior IPS officials of IG and DIG rank, along with 23 deputy commissioners of police (DCP), 39 assistant commissioners of police, and 92 police inspectors, will supervise and guide personnel on match day.

For response to chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) emergencies, teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) will be on standby. Additionally, 10 teams of the Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad, along with two teams of Chetak Commandos, will be strategically positioned near the stadium.

When questioned about potential threats, Mr. Malik urged the media not to amplify threats from unknown sources outside India. He emphasized the police’s readiness to handle any potential threats and discouraged giving undue recognition to such incidents.

Notable attendees expected at the final match include Union Home Minister Amit Shah, U.S. Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti, Minister for Home Affairs and Law of Singapore K. Shanmugam, Tamil Nadu Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, and Meghalaya CM Conrad Sangma.

Adding to the spectacle, the Indian Air Force’s renowned Surya Kiran aerobatics team is scheduled to showcase an air show ahead of the game. The match, scheduled to commence at 2 p.m., will take place in the 1.32-lakh capacity Narendra Modi Stadium, where the Indian team, unbeaten in the tournament, seeks to secure victory in their 11th consecutive match.