ICC Cricket World Cup 2011: Security Precautions and Sena Disruptions

Should you feel secure at the 2011 ICC ODI World Cup?

Indian authorities believe that you should.

Mumbai police have put in place extraordinary precautions to ensure that there are no disruptions or sabotage of the premier event.

The World Cup final will see snipers positioned on the terraces of the buildings surrounding Wankhede stadium.

This is a first.The 26/11 terror attack of 2008, in which a group of Pakistani nationals targeted the heart of South Mumbai, has left its mark on the psyche of its inhabitants.

Policemen will be equipped with Special Voice Ducers (SVD)—for effective communication in the midst of high levels of noise.

Plainclothes cops will monitor conversations and movement within the stadium.

All the elaborate arrangements could come to nought if the Pakistani cricket team makes the finals. The Shiv Sena, a militant Hindu party, have hinted at disrupting the final— in the event.

Senior leader and Rajya Sabha MP, Manohar Joshi said: “Shiv Sena chief Bal Thackeray will take a call on whether they should be allowed to play in Mumbai.”

The Sena has opposed cricketing action featuring India’s north-west neighbour before.

In 1991, activists dug up the Wankhede pitch two days before a match against Pakistan.

In January 1999, the Ferozeshah Kotla ground was dug up before an India-Pakistan tie.

Mumbai will host three World Cup ties:

March 13: Canada versus New Zealand

March 18: Sri Lanka versus New Zealand

April 2: The World Cup Final.

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