3-tier security, 80 checkpoints, drones over Eden after Delhi blast
Times of India | 12 November 2025
Kolkata: Security was bolstered across Kolkata, especially ahead of the India-South Africa match at Eden Gardens from Friday, hours after a high alert was sounded across the country following a blast near Red Fort in Delhi on Monday.
Allaying fears among residents, a Lalbazar officer made it clear while security was being stepped up, there was nothing to panic about. The force had been instructed to stay alert, especially in crowded areas, but nothing suspicious had been found, he added. Kolkata Police commissioner Manoj Verma held a virtual meeting with his officers, instructing them to stay vigilant.
Eighty checkpoints have been set up across the city. Both Indian and South African cricket teams have arrived in the city, and South Africa held their first practice here on Tuesday amid tight security.
India's cricket coach Gautam Gambhir, surrounded by extra personnel, visited the Kalighat Temple on Tuesday.
KP senior officers, including Verma and additional CPs, took stock of Eden Gardens. Verma was seen inspecting one stand after another, discussing security preparations with his team. "Roads will be cleared in advance when the cricket team buses set off so that the vehicles don't need to stop at any cost," said an officer.
He said drones were being deployed over the hotels, where the teams were staying, as well as the stadium and that each device could fly up to 120 m and for 12 hours at a stretch.
The drones could cover 5km around, the officer said.
A three-tier security ring will be thrown around Eden on match days, right from the stadium's outer perimeter to the entrance and to the stands. Every spectator will pass through metal detectors twice.
Plain-clothes officers will be in stands. "The security will be implemented in coordination with national and state agencies," said an additional CP. Kolkata Police will deploy its commandos to ensure no "unwanted" person goes close to the players on the field.
Apart from Eden Gardens, senior officers have been told to be out for round-the-clock surveillance across the city. "Patrolling, naka checks, cop presence in sensitive areas, vehicle checks and verifications at hotels and lodges are on," said a Lalbazar officer. Surveillance on vital installations and popular locations are being held. All entry and exit routes of the city are under watch and SPs in all districts have been put on alert.