Kolkata: Security at Eden Gardens stadium and across Kolkata has been significantly tightened ahead of the first Test match between India and South Africa, in response to the deadly car explosion near Delhi's Red Fort on Monday. Kolkata Police Commissioner Manoj Verma confirmed that the city is on high alert with special and additional security arrangements underway, including deployment of the Special Task Force (STF) alongside regular police.

Plans include a three-tier security zone at Eden Gardens covering the outer perimeter, entrances, and spectator seating, with strict monitoring of all spectator movements. Security has been heightened around the stadium due to its proximity to key landmarks like the West Bengal Legislative Assembly, Raj Bhavan, Calcutta High Court, and All India Radio.

Ahead of the match scheduled for Friday, a meeting between the Cricket Association of Bengal officials and Police Commissioner Verma has been arranged to finalise security protocols. Spectators will undergo at least two metal detector checks, and plainclothes police will monitor both inside and outside the stadium, with a strict ban on suspicious objects or bags.

Additionally, hotels hosting the Indian and South African teams have received boosted security measures. The planned visit of Indian coach Gautam Gambhir to the Kalighat temple on Tuesday might be postponed due to the heightened threat perception.

The Red Fort explosion, which killed at least eight and injured more than twenty, has triggered a high alert in Delhi, with police invoking the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) based on forensic and intelligence inputs suggesting terror links. Authorities continue to maintain vigilance across major transport hubs and city areas in response to potential threats.

With inputs from IANS