XIX Commonwealth Games 2010 – New Delhi, India

September 23, 2010

By Padmini Arhant

The delay in preparedness and various issues concerning the games village has justifiably placed the CWG authorities in spotlight. Being an international event the expectations in the readiness for the athletes arrival is fair and considering the organizers’ miserable failure the reaction is normal.

Although the village complex should have been made available in top notch condition months ago, the torrential rain causing the Yamuna River flooding exacerbated the situation.

Nevertheless, the status quo could be turned around to the international standard despite the pessimism, criticism and the time factor.

For a nation with an incredible talent and human capital, a renowned technology hub, the phenomenal output from the motion picture industry and above all the September 2009 rewarding lunar mission leading to the water detection in the moon, the CWG village restoration should be a no brainer.

It’s clear the committee behind construction and organization needs to be replaced immediately by a nationally or internationally acclaimed robust private industry with expertise in crisis management and sensitivity to the related multinational games.

Most importantly, eliminating bureaucracy that could have partially contributed to the existing problem and diverting attention to the surrounding issues with a positive result is paramount.

Perhaps, the crew hired for the airport project –‘Indira Gandhi International Airport Terminal 3’ that not only produced an exemplary work but also reportedly completed the task within budget and delivered prior to the deadline would be appropriate since they were engaged earlier for the CWG purpose.

It’s incumbent upon everyone across the nation to aid in the CWG rescue rather than allowing the scheduled activity to fall apart.

As for the security issue, the threats during any international occasion are not uncommon – from Olympics to G-20 summits the terror warnings are floated in to discourage the sports or meeting occurrence. When heeding to fear mongering the terrorists and their agenda prevail over rationality and solidarity.

Ensuring tight security around the CWG site again by the competent security agencies – government forces along with trusted local private security firms should adequately provide the necessary protection all over the city.

The technology could be extensively used to thwart any attempts by installing ‘CCTV cameras with audio’ all around to enable further assistance in this regard. Citizens cooperation would enhance the efforts.

It’s important to realize that New Delhi has hosted many successful international events prominently the 1st Asian Games back in March 4 – March 11, 1951 and later the IX Asian Games in 1982 when the Asian Games Village was uniquely designed by the leading architect Raj Rewal who recently completed the much admired Indian Parliament library in New Delhi – attracting accolades.

Per Architecture Week: Specializing in Architecture Design and Building

“The recently completed Parliament Library in New Delhi, India is a response to its monumental context and yet ingenious in its originality.

Designed by architect Raj Rewal, the library is a fine example of post-colonial Indian architecture. It displays high technology with a regional expression, it is modern yet rooted in precolonial history, and it responds thoughtfully to its challenging colonial and political context.”

In addition to sports events, New Delhi has been the popular venue for International Trade Expositions and Symposiums housing delegates and participants from all corners of the world.

Similarly in other parts of India, the Hyderabad Asian-Africa Games in 2003 was proved a remarkable achievement.

India – the land of magnificent palaces, temples and historic monuments is most famous for “The beautiful Taj Mahal,” – all serving as an unparalleled architectural marvel and sculptural feast for the eyes since time immemorial.

Therefore, the CWG facilities across the spectrum should have exceeded the national and international evaluations.

Nonetheless, the athletes accommodation and the venue could be upgraded or relocated to a desirable ambiance in the city through private intervention rather than local government involvement.

Besides, the investments are at stake notwithstanding the national image and reputation.

There is no time to procrastinate and India in the twenty first century cannot resign to ‘not doable,’ approach but instead demonstrate collective responsibility in proving that,

Where there is a will there is a way.

Actions carried out in true human spirit and national interest is bound to triumph the trials and tribulations.

Commonwealth games must proceed to fulfill the humanitarian commitment through sports with utmost diligence assuring the athletes as well as the residents comfort, safety and security.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

 

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Written by Padmini Arhant · Filed Under Sports 

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