Force One inspect venues of Obama's visit

As part of its security measures, a team of Force One, a special terror counter unit formed on the lines of National Security Guard, has inspected the venues that are on the itinerary of US President Barack Obama during his two-day visit to the city.

A team of senior officials of the Force One has visited Taj Mahal, Trident, Taj President and Grand Hyatt hotels where the rooms were booked by US officials for their stay, a senior police official said.

The premises of St Xavier's College, Mani Bhavan and Holy Name school and University of Mumbai, where the US President would visit, were also inspected by the team, he said.

"The purpose of their inspection was to get a first-hand knowledge about the premises and its vicinity. The topographies of these places were studied. Details such as entry and exit points, buildings adjacent to the venues etc were among the various things that were noted and studied by the team," the official said.

However, when contacted, Force One Chief Sadanand Date refused to comment on it citing security reasons.

Though the US First Lady Michelle Obama's programme at Kamatipura -- a red light area in the city -- was cancelled, the physical features of this area was also studied, the official said.

The Force One would be part of the security apparatus that would maintain hawk's eye during the high-profile visit. Police have also issued notices to boat operators asking them not to ferry vessels from the Gateway of India for three days beginning November 5.

All roads close to the iconic Taj Mahal Hotel, where Obama will be staying during his visit, will remain closed for public for two days.