New Delhi:
If you wanted a memento to remind you of the Commonwealth Games, then you're out of luck. The security is so high at the Games Venues, that most people can't even get to the outlets.
Naturally this comes as a blow to the suppliers, but it's also a blow to Organizing Committee who were hoping to recoup some losses.
"It's such a big event. Many people want to buy memorabilia which will reminds them of the Commonwealth Games," said a Games spectator.
The plan was to sell Rs 8 crore worth merchandise through 70 stalls at the venues. But due to security concerns, only four outlets were opened, deep in the high-security zones and all out of bounds for the common man.
There are 20 other outlets across the city too, but it's just not the same as buying memorabilia at the stadium.
"I have sent emails to the Organising Committee for days and received no reply. I have inventory worth crores lying here which will be wasted," said Suresh Kumar, Director of Premier Brands, Sole Merchandiser.
"We have spoken to the police, and they will allow us to open more counters," said Lalit Bhanot, Secretary General, Organising Committee.
Sale of merchandise was to have helped payback a little towards the cost of what is being billed as the most expensive Commonwealth Games in history. Now with the Games coming to a close in just three days, most people it seems will miss out on having a memento to remind them of what has been a historic event for the capital.