Rs 330 crore sanctioned for Commonwealth Games security

In order to ensure foolproof security during the Commonwealth Games, the government has sanctioned Rs 330 crore for procurement of high-tech weapons and devices to counter any possible nuclear and biological attacks.

The fund has been alloted to purchase close circuit television cameras, different types of metal detectors, equipment for bomb disposal squads, devices to deal with chemical and biological attacks, armoured vehicles and various types of weapons.

The Home Ministry has given highest priority to the security of the fortnight-long sporting extravaganza which is scheduled to be held between October 3 and 14, 2010.

"All weapons and equipment will be procured and put in place well before the Commonwealth games begins. We will ensure that funds will not be a constraint in the overall security of the games," a Home Ministry official said.

So far, there is no credible threat to the Commonwealth Games. But, government is taking all precautions as any attempt to target any sports person or official by terrorists may have international repercussion.

Apart from specialised commandos and regular police, IAF helicopters with commandos armed with snipers and assault rifles will be deployed to keep a hawk-eye vigil over Delhi during the Commonwealth Games.

A three-tier security ring will be thrown across each of the 13 competition venues for the Commonwealth Games and special attention was being given to prevent "Lahore-type" attacks on the athletes who will be taken from the Games Village to the venues in dedicated lanes with helicopters providing air surveillance.

Militants had attacked Sri Lankan cricketers in Lahore during their tour of Pakistan on March 3, 2009.

To ensure fleet security, each of the 574 vehicles used for ferrying athletes across the city, will have to undergo a mandatory anti-sabotage clearance every morning before athletes board it.

Around 9,000 athletes from 71 countries besides 100,000 international spectators are expected to participate in the Commonwealth Games.