‘Head of State’ security for Indian Davis Cup team in Pakistan

The security measures being implemented for the Indian Davis Cup team in Pakistan are extensive, resembling those typically accorded to a Head of State. The multi-layer security plan includes daily bomb disposal squad sanitization of the Islamabad Sports Complex, escort vehicles shadowing the Indian team during travel, and restricted movement for the players mainly between the venue and the hotel.
Col Gul Rehman, the secretary general of the Pakistan Tennis Federation (PTF) and event security manager, highlighted the importance of these precautions given that the Indian team is visiting Pakistan after 60 years. He emphasized that Islamabad, where the matches are being held, is considered one of the safest cities in Asia. Additionally, he mentioned the existing tight security due to approaching general elections and the deployment of extensive surveillance measures, including around 10,000 cameras in the city.
The security measures also involve coordination with various authorities, including the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB), Islamabad Police, and traffic police, to ensure the safety and security of the Indian players. The organizers are committed to adhering to the security plan approved by the International Tennis Federation (ITF).
Despite the stringent security measures, it’s noted that the PTF considers hosting the Indian team an honour and expresses a belief in sports diplomacy. Aqeel Khan, a prominent Pakistani tennis player, extends an invitation for the Indian players to explore the city if they feel comfortable doing so.