Delhi security up to scratch

Delhi Commonwealth Games organisers are gradually convincing expected participants they'll scrape together decent security for the October event.

The men's Hockey World Cup has been the highest profile test, supplemented by shooting, archery and boxing events which have passed muster in the eyes of Commonwealth delegations.

New Zealand chef de mission Dave Currie, who has returned to his job as Black Caps manager, believes Delhi is at last promoting the right message.

"I went there pretty grumpy and somewhat cynical, thinking 'you guys are going to have to work hard to convince me' and, by and large, they did.

"The World Cup hockey security started a bit scratchily," said Currie, "but after a week it was impressive.

"For example, going to the stadium meant your first stop was about 800 metres away. Mean-looking commando-type dudes were always parading around. There was a higher level of visible security than I've seen anywhere. And let's face it; the risk of not doing it is enormous when you consider the Cricket World Cup is there early next year.

It's not to say other devices mightn't go off in Delhi and around India because that happens quite often around soft targets. But I am more comforted that they're working hard on it. The level of security for the risk is appropriate now. However, in six months you don't know what might happen."

Black Sticks coach Shane McLeod is of a similar view, having been involved directly in that test event for two weeks in a stadium and hotel described by various media as fortresses.

"Waiting in Perth, Australia, was actually the worst part of the trip because of the anticipation. However the security fulfilled expectations and I think the organisers would have learnt a lot because teams like Canada and England could be pretty demanding.

"There was a visible presence. When we left the hotel there wasn't too much screening but when we returned there were plenty of metal detectors. It was always a worry organisers wouldn't live up to their word but at this stage I'd have no hesitation going back."

Shooting team manager Laurie Gray says security was under control: "We have issues to deal with every time we travel around the world, due to the paperwork associated with firearms, but the five athletes we took [to the test event] were treated like royalty."

Currie said accreditations worked because the right people got into the venue and the hotel.

"Bags were checked thoroughly. Transport was manned by security and there were forces in front and behind. Police were also 'parting the Red Sea' at intersections. However, I can't imagine Delhi residents will find it that easy to get around when roads are closed".