Massive security build-up for Sunday's India-West Indies clash

Keeping in mind a possible terror strike during the ongoing Cricket World Cup, the state administration here has put a thick security blanket around the M A Chidambaram stadium, venue for Sunday's crucial India-West Indies encounter.

City police commissioner, T Rajendran, on Saturday said that around 2,000 police personnel have been pressed in to man the venue besides army and coast guard.

"Army and coast guard will be providing strategic support in the security. Army personnel will be coordinating with us inside the stadium," he said.

The commissioner added that since the venue is located near the Marina beach, coast guard will keep an eye on any possible threat emerging from the sea.

Apart from adequate security personnel on field, 180 close-circuit cameras have been placed at various parts of the stadium to monitor the activities in and around the stadium, the commissioner added.

Smoking and consumption of liquor inside the stadium have been prohibited. Spectators have also been told not to bring any eatables, cameras, water bottles or bags to the venue. And those, who leave the venue before the conclusion of the match, would not be permitted to return, he revealed.

The commissioner said that police would be strict with parking regulations and only valid pass-holders would be allowed in at designated areas.

Central intelligence agencies had recently warned that terrorist organisations such as Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT) could target the quadrennial event and may also look ahead to attack the vital installations around the country.