Foolproof security in place for hockey World Cup

NEW DELHI - Snipers on rooftops, gun-totting commandoes, metal detectors and bomb disposal squads on standby. The Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, the venue for the hockey World Cup that starts Sunday, has been turned into a fortress.

Security personnel have taken full control of the refurbished stadium where the 12-nation tournament is being played for the first time. Every inch of the stadium is teeming with security officials. The media, which was allowed to enter the stadium just two days ago, is being frisked at multiple points and is being escorted to the pitch.

After getting full assurance from the Indian government, all the teams have arrived here despite their initial apprehensions regarding security following threats from Al Quaeda.

Even the team hotel, Le Meridian, has become a fortress and the media is not being allowed access to the lobby to interact with the players.

Delhi Police’s security cell is providing protection to the players, while the local police and commandos of the elite National Security Guard (NSG), as well as other paramilitary forces, are guarding the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium.

Around 15,000 security personnel are in action to prevent a repeat of the terror attack on Sri Lankan cricket players in Lahore last year. Armed policemen will escort the players when they move to and from the stadium, which is located in the heart of the city. Besides two-three armed officers will travel with the players in their bus.

Besides hosts India, Argentina, Australia, Canada, England, Germany, Holland, New Zealand, Pakistan, South Africa, South Korea, and Spain are participating in the tournament.