Best Games Village ever seen: Delegates

The delegates from various Commonwealth countries who have arrived for a recce of the facilities said that this was by far the “poshest” Games Village they’ve seen.

The delegates from various Commonwealth countries who have arrived for a recce of the facilities said that this was by far the “poshest” Games Village they’ve seen.

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“It is unusual for Games to have this kind of high-end accommodation. We are used to more of a social housing kind of Games Village,” said Chris Jenkins, a chef de mission from Wales.

“The dining area is the most important part because athletes eat a lot. So, food is central to the accommodation facility,” he said.

The Games Village was officially opened on Thursday by performing rituals through all faiths — Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism and Jainism.

On Friday, the delegates will visit the various venues to check preparedness. But so far, they are impressed from what they see.

“The Games Village is of top notch. We had remarked this even when we came in May. Some of the works, which are underway in the flats, will be completed before the athletes arrive, we were told,” he said.

The entire 27.17 acre of the property looks as plush as it can get with three sparkling blue swimming pools right at the entrance, the shopping arcades, travel offices and other commercial areas. The training area, with a gymnasium, running track and other facilities lie in the right.

Suresh Kalmadi, chairman of the Organising Committee said the Village would be the best the Games has ever seen. Delhi’s Lt Governor Tejendra Khanna and Leader of Opposition VK Malhotra were also present at the occasion.