January 20, 2014
The organisers of the Mumbai Marathon, which took place yesterday, bought comprehensive insurance cover INR200 million (US$3.25 million) against event cancellation, public liability and terrorism. Around 40,000 runners participated in the 42-km run, the 11th annual marathon in the city.
Security threats at marathon events have increased following bombings at last year’s Boston marathon.
Procam International, organisers of the Mumbai Marathon, sought a repeat of last year’s comprehensive cover with New India Assurance and Reliance General Insurance.
“This year we have covered all the participants through third party liability insurance in case of any injuries during the event,” Mr Bruno Goveas, public relations director of Procam International, told Hindu Business Line.
He said that since there had been no untoward incident in previous, the organisers did not see a need for a higher insurance cover. The sum insured was based on the organisers’ estimate of expenses as funding for the marathon was received through sponsorships.
The organisers increased security for the event and the Mumbai police took special security measures. Around 2,000 police personnel were on duty, patrolling, helping runners and taking care of the crowd control. Two dozen anti-terror teams and anti-sabotage squads were on standby too. Some personnel kept a lookout in watchtowers and others videographed the proceedings. There were also 1,000 private security personnel.
Mr Praveen Vashishta, chairman of Howden Asia Insurance Brokers, says that in events such as marathons, organisers do not perceive much liability risk since the event takes place in a public place. However, he adds, organisers generally take insurance cover against event cancellation or abandonment due to adverse weather conditions or political tensions.
The Mumbai marathon is a high-profile public event, attracting international runners, CEOs and celebrities. Yesterday’s race was completed uneventfully.