Roberto Massucci, Rome's Police Commissioner, has designed a security plan with an "ongoing" approach in preparation for the Conclave. On May 7, at 7 a.m., the perimeter of Via della Conciliazione, Via di Porta Angelica, and Piazza del Sant'Ufficio will be closed to allow all the faithful and pilgrims to experience this new phase of the Catholic Church in conditions of extreme safety. The usual double step of checks will be conducted at the outermost pre-filtering gates and, subsequently, at the permanent checkpoints that are active along the two wings of the Colonnade of St. Peter's Square. Selected anti-terrorism departments have been deployed along all of the Vatican's roadways. Helicopters and drones will be used to control from above. However, the dedication to safeguarding religious liturgies is not limited to the Vatican area. With the trend now stabilized, visitor numbers have increased at the other three Jubilee basilicas, particularly Santa Maria Maggiore, which literally "exploded" in its capacity after receiving the remains of Pope Francis. The organizational approach employed by the Police Headquarters allows for the safe management of visitor traffic while preserving the livability of the surrounding urban environment.
|