CWG opening ceremony to be "best ever": T S Darbari

Commonwealth Games (CWG) Organising Committee Joint Director General, T S Darbari, said that Delhi will host the best ever opening ceremony and ensured that security will be full proof during the October 3-14 quadrennial sporting extravaganza.

Commonwealth Games (CWG) Organising Committee Joint Director General, T S Darbari, said that Delhi will host the best ever opening ceremony and ensured that security will be full proof during the October 3-14 quadrennial sporting extravaganza.

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The delay in construction of venues in Delhi has raised doubts about India's capability to host a world class opening ceremony and the recent blast in Bangalore have raised security concerns again.

"The opening ceremony, the way it has been planned, it'll be the best ever," Darbari, who is in Australia for Queen's baton relay ahead of the CWG, said.

"Better than Melbourne, better than any Commonwealth Games, better than Beijing - it's a guarantee," he added.

Delhi is facing a test against time to put the venues in place as work in the Nehru stadium, swimming complex and cycling venue is still lagging.

Even Commonwealth Games Federation Chief Executive Mike Hooper, during his visit to India in March, had said that it would take till July to complete the venues.

However, Darbari exuded confidence that by June the constructions will be over to allow hosting of test events.

"It's going to be tight but it will happen," he said.

India's Games budget has increased from USD 1.2 billion to USD 2 billion but Darbari estimated that the Games will generate about USD 5 billion for India and strengthen the economy as a whole.

"The Games can be used not only for promoting harmony, peace, friendship and cooperation but also for forging very strong economic ties and enhancing and creating economic relationships," he said.

About full proof security arrangements during the Commonwealth Games, Darbari set aside doubts that visiting family and supporters of the athletes could be at risk when outside the sporting venues.

"Delhi is very, very safe (and) secure - not only for the sports people who are coming but also for their families and for the tourists."

"I know what the plan is that is being formulated, I can't share the details, but let me tell you it is full proof," Darbari said.