Hyderabad tightens security for Messi football match
HYDERABAD: Hyderabad police have put in place tight security arrangements for the Lionel Messi football match, Rachakonda Police Commissioner Sudheer Babu said on Friday. Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, ministers, and prominent guests from India and abroad are expected to attend.
About 3,000 personnel from multiple departments have been deployed in a three-tier security cover at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium, Uppal, and surrounding areas. The stadium has a seating capacity of 39,000.
450 CCTV cameras, Z-category cover for Messi
Addressing a media conference at Uppal, Sudheer Babu said 450 CCTV cameras have been installed inside and outside the stadium, with additional surveillance through drones. She Teams will be deployed to ensure women’s safety.
Lionel Messi will be provided Z-category security. A green channel will be created for his arrival and departure. Police advised the public not to come onto roads to catch a glimpse of the footballer during these movements. People without tickets have been asked to stay away from the stadium vicinity.
Digital entry, app opens four hours before match
Match organiser Anantham said the entire process, from ticket issuance to stadium entry, will be fully digital. Entry will be allowed only after scanning QR codes. The entry app will open four hours before the match.
Spectators have been advised to reach the stadium by 4 pm. Music and other programmes will be held ahead of the match.
Police said spectators should preferably use Telangana State Road Transport Corporation buses and the Metro Rail. Thirty-four parking areas have been identified around the stadium. Items such as laptops, banners, water bottles, cameras, helmets and bags are prohibited. Food brought from outside will not be allowed.
