Is Delhi ready for Commonwealth Games?

The Olympic fever is over, for now. After Beijing, the action moves to London for the 2012 games. But before that, New Delhi is to host the Commonwealth Games in 2010. While Beijing Olympics showcased years of preparations which translated into an impressive visual treat and jaw-dropping examples of cutting-edge infrastructure, the level of the Capital's preparedness on the other hand for an event that is barely two years away is worrying to say the least. With images of Beijing fresh in everybody's mind, Times City decided to do a reality check on the competition and training venues for the 2010 Games in the city which will see as many as 8,000 athletes participating.

Overall responsibility of the Games rests with the Sports Authority of India (SAI). CPWD, the consultant appointed by SAI is workingagainst a December 2009 deadline to renovate Games venues.

Times City began its reality check with Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, venue of the opening and closing ceremonies. It will also host events like athletics, lawn bowling and weightlifting.

Just 20% of the required work has been completed in the main stadium. CPWD has removed the four giant lights that were a city landmark for decades to make way for a roof over the spectators' gallery as per international norms. The benches too are to be replaced by plush chairs to accommodate as many as 66,000 spectators. There will also be special centres for players, VIPs and media.