Police in Colombo have decided to enforce a zero-tolerance policy on prohibited items that will include musical instruments, helmets, jackets, glass bottles, large travel bags, alcoholic beverages, knives, sharp objects, drones and electronic devices inside the Premadasa Stadium in Colombo where the much touted India-Pakistan T20 Cricket World Cup match will be played on Sunday.
Strict security measures will be in place at all entry points and every spectator will be subject to body checks and monitoring through CCTV surveillance.
The match, scheduled to start at 7:00 pm local time, is expected to draw a full-capacity crowd.
Over two thousand officers, including 1,500 regular police personnel and 600 traffic cops will be deployed in and around the stadium.
In addition to uniformed officers, plainclothes police and intelligence personnel will monitor the crowd to prevent any incidents.
Addressing a special media briefing, Police spokesman Assistant Superintendent of Police FU Wootler said the arrangements are being implemented under the direct supervision of the Inspector General of Police to ensure public safety and smooth traffic flow.
To manage the large influx of supporters of both teams, the Colombo Traffic Division has implemented a special traffic plan. Key roads around the stadium, including Grandpass Road, Sebastian Canal Road and Khettarama Road, will have restricted access.
General parking near the stadium will be unavailable and instead Park-and-Ride shuttle services will operate from the Old MOD Car Park and Port City Car Park.
Police also announced temporary road closures and restricted access on several roads surrounding the venue to prioritise pedestrian safety. These include Wilson Perera Mawatha (Grandpass Road), parts of Babapulle Mawatha and Maligawatta Road. Motorists have been advised to use alternative routes and follow traffic instructions issued by officers on duty.
Wootler urged the public to conduct themselves responsibly stating that the international fixture is a matter of national pride.
He warned that any disturbances would be dealt with strictly according to the law.
