Kolkata: Security has been stepped up across Kolkata’s Eden Gardens as the city prepares to host the India South Africa Test match beginning on November 14. Police have increased deployment in and around the stadium, team hotels and practice areas to ensure smooth movement for players and spectators.

Officials said a three layer security arrangement is in place, with strict checks at entry points, additional surveillance and more officers stationed across the Maidan area. A traffic advisory has also been issued for roads around the stadium from November 14 to 18. The measures follow a recent blast near Delhis Red Fort, which prompted security agencies across the country to stay on high alert.

In a separate development, the National Investigation Agency carried out searches at 10 locations across five states as part of an ongoing probe into a Gujarat based terror conspiracy linked to Al Qaida. The raids were conducted in West Bengal, Tripura, Meghalaya, Haryana and Gujarat.

Investigators said the case involves four Bangladeshi nationals who are suspected of entering India using forged documents. They are believed to have raised funds for Al Qaida operatives in Bangladesh and attempted to influence young people towards extremist activities. Digital devices and documents seized during the searches are being examined.

Authorities said the operations are part of efforts to strengthen national security at a time when major public events are taking place and intelligence agencies are monitoring possible threats closely.