Mumbai Police Commissioner Arup Patnaik has put in place a massive security cover for the Saturday’s high-voltage India-Sri Lanka finals of 2011 cricket world cup to be played at the Wankhade Stadium in Mumbai to ensure the safety of players, spectators and VIPs in the stadium.

Even though there is no specific information of any possible terrorist threat during the match, he said he preferred not to take any chances with the safety of players and spectators.

More than 3500 security personnel including the machine-gun wielding Army men and Para-military troops will keep a constant watch over trouble makers in and out of the stadium during the match which will be witnessed by Indian President Pratibha Patil and her Sri Lankan counterpart, Mahinda Rajapakse.

An unprecedented security ring has been thrown around Taj Mahal Palace and Tower hotel in the city where both the Indian and Sri Lankan teams are staying. This was the same hotel which was attacked by Pakistan terrorists in 2008.

The police chief said that there would be heavy frisking with restrictions in place on taking food, drink, bags, electronics and other items into the 32,000-seater venue, which will be monitored by a network of security cameras. “Indian army, navy and air force are supporting us in our efforts,” Patnaik said, adding the entire south of the city would be no fly zone.

Anti-aircraft guns also will keep a constant vigil on the skies throughout the match, he said.