Dikshit seeks public support for Games

Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit Wednesday sought people's cooperation for the successful conduct of the Commonwealth Games in October, admitting that the government was nervous over the mega-event.

"The government is both confident and nervous (about the success of the Games)... We delayed it (earlier)... However, things are doing well," Dikshit said at a conference My Delhi, My Game here.

The chief minister also exhorted the people to showcase the city's rich culture during the Oct 3-14 Games when thousands of visitors are expected to throng the city.

Asked about maintenance of the CWG property after the games, she said the responsibility lies with the residents of the city.

To a query about the position of Delhi to host Olympics Games in the future, she said the potential of the city to host any big event would be more visible after the October event ends.

The infrastructure projects and security have been "taken care of", she added.

Speaking at the conference, Union Urban Development Minister S. Jaipal Reddy said: "There are people who think that we are spending a lot on the Games, but the fact is big projects under the CWG banner are needed for Delhi's growth."

"The infrastructure will remain as the legacy of the CWG forever," she said.

According to Commonwealth Games Organising Committee Chairman Suresh Kalmadi, about two lakh people were employed because of the Games. Much of the resources will be generated through sale of television rights besides sale of tickets and merchandise.