The Governing Body of the Asian Athletic Championships met under the chairmanship of Minister of Sports and Youth Services Chandra Sarathi Behera on Friday to review the preparations for the ensuing 22nd Asian Athletic Championship-2017 being hoisted by the Government of Odisha.
Participating in the discussion, Chief Secretary AP Padhi emphasised on the safety, security and convenience of the athletes.
Padhi also directed the CESU and electrical engineers to conduct methodical and careful safety audit of the electrical arrangements done in the stadium and ensure 100 per cent safety.
The Commissionerate police were advised to issue traffic advisory well in advance so that general citizens of the capital city do not face much inconvenience for commuting.
Minister Behera also advised to take appropriate care for safe food and safe water for all the athletes, officials and delegates. It was resolved in the meeting that the police would make appropriate security arrangements at stadium, transit points and stay venues of the players and officials.
Replying to a media query after the meeting, Minister Behera said that elaborate arrangement has been made for successful arrangement of the prestigious game in Odisha. Details of the arrival of the athletes, their stay, food, security, transport and practice etc were reviewed in the meeting.
Secretary Sports and Youth Services Vishal Dev said, “As of now athletes from 45 countries have registered their participation. So far, 1,104 entries have been registered. From among the registered athletes, 505 are men and 310 are women. The budget for the event has been estimated at Rs 30.84 crore.” The important dates of the grand event were finalised. The teams form SAARC countries would arrive till June 25. The opening ceremony would be held on July 5. Various track, run and throw events would be played from July 6 to 9. The closing ceremony would be held on July 9.