More than 3,000 police officers will be working around the clock to help guard the Eurovision song contest to be held in Athens this week, as the Public Order Ministry implements Olympic Games-like security measures.

The police, along with 500 guards from private security firms, will keep a close eye on the OAKA indoor basketball arena where the song contest is taking place.

Additional security forces will be used to guard hotels accommodating participants.

The competition’s semifinal is to be held on Thursday while the final is set for Saturday.

Police sources said that around 20,000 visitors will be in Athens for the contest, some 16,000 more than initial estimates.

Police patrols will also increase in central Athens to help ensure that various scheduled activities remain trouble free. Additionally, there will also be some traffic regulations. Cars bearing an accreditation will be given priority and will be allowed to use bus lanes.