New Delhi:
With less than 24 hours to go for the grand opening to the Commonwealth Games, the Jawahar Lal Nehru Stadium, the main venue of the Games, looks picture perfect.
The rest of Delhi is geared up too, with a near-total shutdown.
Not wanting to take any chances when it comes to security, the government has ordered all major shops, markets and commercial establishments in the capital to remain closed on Sunday.
"I think it is justified. The government has to be concerned about security. CWG is a matter of national pride for us and we're willing to cooperate," said a shopkeeper.
Although not everyone feels the same, with mixed reactions coming in from people on the extra security measures. "It is so boring having to stay home for two consecutive days. There's no source of entertainment. It's very disappointing," said another shopkeeper.
For the police, it is a huge task.
- 80,000 policemen are guarding 41 venues, including the Games Village.
- 650 police vans and 350 quick reaction teams will patrol the city.
- Paramilitary forces are also on standby.
"All leaves of the police personnel have been cancelled till the Games are over. This is a moment of great challenge for the Delhi police. We will leave no stone unturned," said YS Dadwal, Commissioner, Delhi Police.
On the traffic arrangements during the Games, Dadwal said, "We are not asking anyone to stay at home. We just want people in Delhi to be aware of routes. If they plan before, they will face no travel worries."
Guidelines to ticket holders:
- Take seat well in advance of event.
- Carry accreditation card with ticket without fail.
- Every person will be thoroughly checked and frisked.
- In case ticket/card reader fails, security personnel authorized to check ticket holders.
- For opening/closing ceremony, ticket holders should take their seats according to block, row specified.
With last minute touches being put in place, Delhi finally gets ready for the Games to begin. All eyes are now on the opening ceremony and everyone is hoping that it turns out to be as spectacular as the organisers promised.