CWG 2010 mascot Shera Visits ANI
New Delhi, Sep 24: The mascot for the Commonwealth Games 2010, Shera, visited South Asia’s multimedia news agency Asian News International on Friday.
Employees were elated on seeing Shera and shook hands with him. They also clicked photographs with Shera, who gave the signal that all is well with the Commonwealth Games.
Shera, the tiger, mascot of the CWG 2010, later danced to A R Rahman created theme song of the XIXth Commonwealth Games ‘Oh Yaaron, Yeh India Bulaa liya’.
Shera is the visible face of the XIX Commonwealth Games 2010 Delhi. His name comes from the Hindi word Sher - meaning tiger. Shera represents the modern Indian.
He is an achiever with a positive attitude, a global citizen but justifiably proud of his nation’s ancient heritage, a fierce competitor but with integrity and honesty. Shera is also a ‘large-hearted gentleman’ who makes friends and encourages people to ‘come out and play’.
In Indian mythology, the tiger is associated with Goddess Durga, the incarnation of Shakti (or female power) and the vanquisher of evil. She rides on her powerful vehicle - the tiger - into combat, especially in her epic and victorious battle against Mahishasur, a dreaded demon.
Shera embodies values that the nation is proud of: majesty, power, charisma, intelligence and grace. His athletic prowess, courage and speed on the field are legendary. He is also considered as a reminder of the fragile environment he lives in and our responsibility towards the protection of his ecosystem.
The mascot began its promotional journey from Delhi University’s Miranda House College on September 1.
The 2010 Commonwealth Games, which kicks off on October 3, is India’s biggest sporting event since the 1982 Asian Games.
India is expecting about two million tourists in New Delhi for the Games, as well as about 10,000 athletes from 71 teams representing 54 Commonwealth member states.
Welcome Song of Games unveiled
New Delhi, Sep 23: A song to welcome visitors to the Commonwealth Games India 2010 and celebrate the colourful spirit of the capital was unveiled at the India Habitat Centre here Thursday evening.
The five-minute musical tribute to the Games, “Subhankar” (mascot), has been sung by businessman-turned-musician Raman Kapoor and composed by Balvinder Assi.
The lyrics have been penned by Vishvjit..
The song talks about the arrival of India as a power on the world stage, the universal appeal of the Games, the spirit of the sporting extravaganza and the camaraderie among the Commonwealth nations.
The song that is being played on the FM radio channels will be broadcast by All India Radio as part of its special capsule on Commonwealth Games and on “Radio Dhamaal”.
It will also be performed live at the promotional events during the Games, vocalist Kapoor said. “Events in the past week have sparked negativity in the minds of the people in the capital. Everyone is unhappy. We are the host country of the Commonwealth Games and this is out first opportunity in 99 years to host the wallpaper gala since it began,” he said.“We want to convey to people that the Games promote only friendship and fair play. This is the essence of the message that we want to carry across to dilliwallahs (residents of Delhi) through our little anthem,” Kapoor said.“We want people to listen to the song and enjoy it - be happy and revel in the spirit of the Games,” he said.
The lyrics of the jingle go like this: “Saari duniya ye dekhe, bharat ke badhte kadam… umang hai, dil mein nayi, josh hai - dam mein dam… saari duniya yeh dekhe, bharat ke badhte kadam (let the world see India’s giant stride, there is new joy in the heart, new zest, new life…)”.“The idea for the song came a month ago at one of my recordings. I suggested that we should compose a lively jingle to lift the spirit of the citizens of Delhi who had misgivings about the Games. Vishvjit composed it instantly and my friend, Assi, a musician, set it to tune,” Kapoor said.
The launch function was attended by many celebrities including ghazal exponent Satish Babbar, daughter Vani Babbar and designer-sisters Gauri and Nayanika.
Indian PM holds emergency talks to salvage the Common Wealth Games
Thursday, September 23, 2010: The Indian prime minister, Manmohan Singh has called an emergency meeting to deliberate on the challenges the country is currently facing as the Commonwealth Games 2010 approach.
The prime minister called his wallpaper and development ministers for an emergency meeting to discuss the growing discontentment towards the upcoming games in the country.
Dadwal: Security arrangements for CWG are foolproof
New Delhi, Sep. 23: Delhi Police Commissioner, Y. S Dadwal in a high-level meeting with Home Minister P Chidambaram on Thursday assured that the security arrangements for the Commonwealth Games in New Delhi are foolproof.
“The security arrangements for the Games are absolutely foolproof, there should be no doubt about this at all,” said Dadwal.
Referring to the recent shootout incident that took place near historic Jama Masjid, Dadwal said that the gunmen had not even reached the point where security checkposts had been put up so the question of failed checks did not arise.
“It will have no impact on the Commonwealth Games security, and there was one sting operation, which was bogus in nature, is not correct. At that time … now people are prohibited from reaching that place. Checking was to start at the point from where this person reiterated. He went till where he could but there were no checkpoints there, so how could he be checked?” said Dadwal.
Kalmadi: No team will pull out of Delhi 2010
New Delhi, Sept.23: Organising Committee Commonwealth Games 2010 Chairman Suresh Kalmadi today said he was happy with the progress made in the Games Village as it got ready to welcome the first of the 7000 athletes and team officials who will reside there during the Commonwealth Games.”As many as 121 Indian athletes and team officials from five disciplines and 17 Indian Para Sport athletes and team officials are slated to check into the Games Village this evening. I am sure that they will find the Village in good condition,” Kalmadi said, having overseen the deployment of an extra workforce.”I spent time at the Village this morning and am happy with the progress made by my team, with the support of Government agencies, in bringing up all 32 towers in the Village’s Residential Zone to standards that would be acceptable to all our honoured visitors,” he said. “The first overseas teams are expected tomorrow.”We believe there will be no serious complaints anymore. And we believe that no teams will pull out of the Games,” he said. “I am happy to note that we have already completed Delegation Registration Meetings with 21 teams. More will be completed in the coming days. I have met the Chefs de Missions and Team Managers from these teams “The training facilities, athletes dining hall and International Zone are all world class and the Residential Zone, especially some of the newer buildings, has had some problems because of the copious rain that Delhi has received this season. We are making good progress,” Mr. Kalmadi said before leaving for the airport to receive Commonwealth Games Federation President Mr. Michael Fennell. The CGF President is due to visit the Games Village on Friday morning.
City is all set to host CWG in best possible way: Sheila Diskshit
New Delhi, Sep. 22: Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit assured here on Wednesday that the city is all set to host the mega event in the best possible way.
Talking about the footbridge collapse incident near the main venue of the Commonwealth Games that occurred on Tuesday, the Chief Minister said there were some problems but they were not insurmountable.
“I would like to tell you very categorically these minor hitches and glitches do come around, whenever a building is new. But to make it look as if the entire system has collapsed, I am sorry, we do not agree with that. There will be some problems, there are some problems but they are not insurmountable problems,” said Sheila Dikshit.
She also said that the work for the much-awaited event has been carried out with full flow, and all loopholes and problems would be addressed immediately.
Crosswhite: Australia remains committed to Delhi 2010
New Delhi, Sept.22: Australian Sports Minister Mark Arbib and Commonwealth Games Association and Australia’s Chief Executive Perry Crosswhite have said their country remains committed to contesting next month’s Commonwealth Games 2010 Delhi.
Asked by Australian Associated Press if the idea of withdrawing from the Games had been discussed by his nation, Crosswhite said, “No, not at all. I think you have to be very careful to make that kind of decision because what you are essentially doing is making that decision on behalf of 400 athletes.”
“The reality is, they are the ones the Games are for and in some respects they are the ones that have to make the decision about whether they want to come here or not.”
“You certainly are in a situation where health and safety and all those issues need to be met. But if they are - and they are - of an acceptable standard, then the Games are for the athletes and they are the ones that should come along and make those decisions.”
“… They can have their views and all the rest of it but I don’t think we certainly have the right to make their decision unless it’s based on something that we are trying to protect them from a security or health issue,” he said
Crosswhite, who earlier on Wednesday spoke with Australian officials from the 17 wallpaper at the Games, said no athlete barring world champion discus thrower Dani Samuels withdrew from the Games had indicated he or she would follow suit.
“None of them (Australian officials) said to me that they had any issues in respect of athletes advising them that they had similar concerns to Dani,” Mr. Crosswhite said. “All athletes, particularly with what they see in the media in Australia, they have every right to be concerned because they don’t see any of the better side of it which they will certainly see when they get here - but they’re not here yet.”
Crosswhite said Australia’s accommodation at the Games Village was acceptable while acknowledging displeasure of other nations with their facilities in separate blocks. “There are things that need to be corrected. I’m comfortable … as long as the hard work that has started now is maintained and probably increases. There are a number of defects that need to be fixed but it’s not like buildings are going to fall down or anything. We are in three tower blocks and in the apartments, a few of those had things that needed to be fixed and they are being fixed now.”
Prime Minister Dr. Singh calls on President Patil
New Delhi, Sep.20: Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh called on President Pratibha Patil on Monda at the Rashtrapati Bhavan.
Both the leader during their 45-minute meet discussed about just concluded State Visit of the President of India to Cambodia and Lao PDR.
They also discussed about matters pertaining to J&K situation, left wing extremism, food storage facility, rehabilitation of cloud-burst victims in Leh region, Commonwealth Games 2010 to be held in the next month in New Delhi and various other issues of national and international importance, an official release stated.
Indimoto.com offers free car pool service for commuters during Delhi CWG
New Delhi, Sept.20:
Website Indimoto.com has offered to provide a free-car pool service for next month’s Commonwealth Games in Delhi. It said that it would waive aside the nominal fee it charges for matching car poolers from September 20 till October 16 for those posting car pool requests not only from Delhi but from across India.
Interested commuters who wish to car pool can register on www.indimoto.com for free and put a carpool wanted ad with their respective routes and timings. Indimoto.com’s recently revamped website maintains privacy of the user’s contact details and verifies respondent’s details to ensure safety.
Speaking about the new initiative, Udit Bhandari, Founder and CEO of Indimoto.com said; “The Commonwealth Games 2010 will become a nightmare for Delhi’s motorists who will face long traffic jams when the dedicated CWG lanes come into effect from September 20 till October 16. The Delhi Government and industry associations like ASSOCHAM have been pleading office-goers to carpool and Indimoto.com being India’s 1st carpool classifieds is here to help them find suitable matches”.
Trials of the dedicated CWG lanes on key arterial roads have already resulted in massive traffic jams and when the lanes come into permanent effect, the congestions will be unprecedented. Mr. Bhandari added; “If even 5% of the 85 lakh-strong working populations of Delhi and NCR opt for carpools, it will be a milestone achievement for us and will go a long way in reducing traffic and pollution during this important international event”.
Incident of Delhi firing will not affect CWG: Reddy
Monday, September 20, 2010 11:44:49 AM
New Delhi, Sep 20: Union Urban Development Minister S. Jaipal Reddy condemn the incident of fire at Delhi’s Jama Masjid on Sunday. He said that the incident would not effect the Commonwealth Games, in this incidence two foreign tourists were injured.
Reddy said that: “That (the shootout) will have no impact whatsoever on the readiness of our people to present the Games. This incident will have no impact on the wallpaperpersons who are scheduled to come. The Commonwealth Games Village, where they would be put up, will have very high level of protection.”
He added by saying, “We were always aware that the enemies of the nation would try to do something. It is a small incident…whatever it is, it is for every person in Delhi and visitor to be alert. We have mobilised sufficient security.”
Chairman of the Commonwealth Organising Committee Suresh Kalmadi said he had spoken to many Commonwealth countries and nobody is worried. “It is not having any impact. We are all set for a great game,” he added.
The Commonwealth Games 2010 will be held from 3 to 14 October in New Delhi.
Security has been tightened in the capital for the CWG. India is expecting about two million tourists in New Delhi for the Games, as well as about 10,000 athletes from 71 teams representing 54 Commonwealth member states.
Commonwealth Games on Despite the Delhi shooting
Sunday, September 19, 2010 8:07:00 PM
New Delhi, Sep.19: Concerning Jama Masjid shooting incident on Sunday morning Organising Committee of Commonwealth Games announced that incident would not effect the upcoming games in Delhi.
“The shooting incident this morning in Delhi will have no impact on the Commonwealth Games 2010 Delhi,” said the official statement by Organising Committee. It further said that Ministry of Home Affairs and Delhi Police have made elaborate arrangements to provide Commonwealth Games athletes as well as officials safe and secure environment.” The Commonwealth Games Associations of the nations and territories have been satisfied with the plans and preparations made by Delhi Police and the International Security Liaison Group, formed by the Ministry of Home Affairs,” it further added.
Prasoon Joshi: Games anthem now more peppy, shorter, tighter
New Delhi, Sep 16: A.R. Rahman’s theme song for the Commonwealth Games (CWG) “Jiyo Utho Badho Jeeto” has been tweaked to be made more “peppy, shorter and tighter”, revealed adman-turned-lyricist Prasoon Joshi Thursday evening.
“It has already been tweaked. A.R. Rahman always does that. He keeps on improvising his work and adding layers to it. And that is what he has done to this one,” said Joshi.“He has added more layers to it and more folk instruments. It has become more peppy, shorter and tighter now. A video will be released on the same within a week featuring wallpaper stars and wallpaper achievements of India,” he added.
Joshi along with veteran filmmaker Shyam Benegal and poet, lyricist-scriptwriter Javed Akhtar, is part of the three-member core committee set up to envisage the opening and closing ceremonies for the Commonwealth Games 2010.
Widely panned as just average on its initial unveiling, the song calls upon everyone to participate in the Oct 3-14 mega sporting event.
The theme song was unveiled Aug 28 after it was delayed by a few days after the Group of Ministers (GoM) asked Rahman to tweak the song.
Penned by Mehboob, it took him and Rahman six months to finish the CWG song.
Ceramic- Indian artist sculpting tool
Tuesday, September 14, 2010 10:45:03 AM
New Delhi, Sep 14: As per veteran Indian ceramic sculptor P.R. Daroz- Ceramic is being used as a tool for the abstract sculptures whose latest works seek to portray sea bed compositions as well as ruins of lost cities.
Daroz exhibiting a new body of over 50 ceramic sculptures in Delhi as a part of its Commonwealth Games 2010 art package. Exhibits are displayed at Art Alive Gallery till Sep 30.
“The use of ceramics has changed over the years. It began as a potter’s tool centuries ago when clay craftsmen used wet earth to fire glazed pottery in slow fires. Now, the clay is fired in high temperature at more than 1,300 degrees Celsius and treated with chemicals and pigments to make abstract and impressionistic solid art. Pottery is no longer functional, it is high art,” says Daroz.
The exposition ‘I am Clay’, says the artist “is a journey of self-discovery to unearth new metaphors for the potter, who has been dabbling in clay for the last 40 years”.
The sculptures, mostly sea bed compositions and ruins of lost cities, are a motley of psychedelic shapes in morphing shades of white, brown, blue, green, red and orange that rise, fall and merge into each other on small rectangular surfaces and tall vertical pillar-like columns.
They resemble complex geological maps with serrated contours, ridges, flats and rainbow water marks.
“They are sea bed forms because they depict patterns formed on the surface of the sea floor by the relentless lashing of waves and several other natural phenomenon. The colour palette is watery and obscure because they represent the natural imprints left by fossils of ancient vegetation, corals, sea creatures and organic substances on the sea rocks,” the sculptor said. “The sculptures were inspired by my growth as an artist. As my thoughts matured, so did my art. I began 40 years ago, crafting traditional pots and figurative sculptures with red potter’s clay. The medium was basic. I moved to ceramics and porcelain - clay baked in high heat - later,” he added.
Daroz, an accomplished muralist, is currently working on another series of sea bed sculptures. “They are large format works,” he said.
Born in Hyderabad in 1944, Daroz trained at the College of Fine Art and Architecture in Hyderabad and at M S University in Baroda. He has exhibited extensively both in India and abroad.
“Ceramic is an engrossing medium. It taxes the artist as it involves mastery over material, physical labour, creativity and deft strokes,” he said.
Porcelain as well as blue pottery originated in China and came to India in 14th century with invaders from central Asia.
‘Planting on the World’s Rooftop’ campaign before CWG 2010 by Drukpa lineage chief
Sunday, September 12, 2010 3:41:31 PM
Ladakh, Sept.12: Head of the Drukpa Lineage, Gyalwang Drukpa proponent of Mahayana Buddhist philosophy and founder of Live to Love humanitarian initiatives announced that plantation drive across Ladakh for conserving environment in the region.
This drive is dedicated to a greener Commonwealth Games 2010 Delhi. It was kicked off today by monks, nuns as well as the members of Young Drukpa Association of Drukpa Lineage. They planted 1016 trees near the Hemis monastery in Ladakh. The trees planted during the drive comprise of Poplar and Ladakh Willow, which are native to the region.
This plantation across Ladakh is a part of initiative to conserve the environment lineage that has already undertaken several environmental initiatives in the past.
The plantation driven will culminate during Commonwealth Games 2010 as an attempt to come to Guinness World record.
Gyalwang Drukpa, expressing his enthusiasm at the fruition of his dream, said: “The harsh conditions in these hilly terrains cannot be a deterrent in our duty towards those who are suffering because of environmental hazards. This is an attempt to conserve the environment of Ladakh and an attempt to strike a green balance in the most difficult terrain In the Himalayas. I am proud to dedicate this plantation drive to a greener Commonwealth Games 2010 and I urge that this drive along with the people of Ladakh will spur several such initiatives and will pray for a cleaner, greener India”.
Commenting on the drive, Minister of State for Communication and IT, Sachin Pilot, said: “This is a special occasion, as Drukpa Lineage has initiated a green campaign in the most difficult terrain in the Himalayas. I am happy that this campaign is dedicated to the sustainable development of the Leh region.”
He added: “I sincerely hope that the efforts of the Lineage and the prayers of all our fellow countrymen across India will give strength to the people of Ladakh during these trying times.”
The Chairman of Organising Committee Commonwealth Games 2010 Delhi, Suresh Kalmadi said: “We are committed towards establishing the first-ever Green Commonwealth Games and have set forth for a Green vision of ’striving towards reducing the carbon footprint, ultimately setting a benchmark for all multi-disciplinary Games in the future.”
Jagmohan Bhanot, Officer on Special Duty, Delhi CWG 2010, said: “We are leveraging the Games platform to conduct extensive plantation programmes with the objective of bio diversity enhancement. The potential sequestration of Games related emissions is one of the key focus areas for us in the 2010 Delhi Environmental Programme. We are extremely happy to be associated with the tree plantation drive initiated by His Holiness Gyalwang Drukpa in Ladakh, which will be a true lasting environmental legacy of the Games. Our efforts will also create a sustaining legacy for Delhi and the nation.”
“Shera” Song to celebrate enthusiasm for Commonwealth Games by Gill
Thursday, September 09, 2010 10:05:47 PM
New Delhi, Sep. 9: Dr. M.S. Gill (Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs) launched the song ‘Shera’ at ceremony Thursday.
Produced by Vikramjit Singh Sahney and Raksha Dhawan, composed by Jeetu J and sung by Vikramjit Singh Sahney, Shibani Kashyap and Milind. It was produced and presented to the Organising Committee Commonwealth Games 2010 Delhi by Sun Foundation- a charitable institution.
Dr. Gill says that music is an integral part of any games and song will appeal to both Indian and International audiences.
Dr. Gill says, “I am delighted to be the part of the launch of Shera song. Music is an integral part of any games. I am happy that Punjabi community has come forward with this song on Shera. I personally liked the song and each song has its different mood and characteristics,”“The Shera song is a beautiful blend of Punjabi tune with balance of Hindi and English lyrics. The song will appeal to both Indian and International audience. The soul of this song is rooted in our cultural heritage of Punjab. Let the people listen to the song and decide,” he added. Vikramjit Singh Sahney appealed everyone to unite and make the Games a success.“Patriotism is an emotion and attitude. It’s a sense of belonging. It is a time for all of us to play a part. India is a land of promise and passion. Let’s unite once again and make the Commonwealth Games 2010 Delhi a success,” said Sahney.
Commonwealth Games Shopping Festival to kick off from Sept.25
New Delhi, Sept.8: The Organising Committee Commonwealth Games 2010 Delhi, in an initiative with the Delhi Traders Association has decided to organize the “Commonwealth Games Shopping Festival” across all main markets in Delhi from September 25, 2010 to October 15, 2010.“We are delighted to announce this Shopping Festival as part of the festive spirit that is set to engulf the city as part of the Commonwealth Games Delhi 2010. Our endeavor is to impart to every visitor an exciting and memorable experience during their stay in the city.” said Suresh Kalmadi, M.P., Chairman- Organising Committee, Commonwealth Games 2010,Delhi.
The festival will be held across the popular markets in Greater Kailash, South Extension, Chandani Chowk, Karol Bagh, Lajpat Nagar, Connaught Place, Kamla Nagar, Azmal Khan Road, Rajouri Garden and Chawri Bazar to name a few.
In keeping with the festive mood and celebrations during the games, all the above markets will be decorated and illuminated in order to induce the spirit of the Delhi 2010 Games and provide visitors with an insight to the rich cultural heritage of the country.
Saina apologizes for terming 2010 CWG preparations ‘not up to the mark’
Hyderabad, Sep.4:
Ace Indian shuttler and brand ambassador of the 2010 Commonwealth Games, Saina Nehwal on Saturday evening regretted for describing preparations for the Commonwealth Games 2010 “not being up to the mark in comparison to the games held in Melobourne and Beijing on previous occasions.”
Talking to mediapersons in Hyderbad in the evening, Saina said: “I am one of the good wallpaper persons of the country and I want to do well in front of my home crowd and I am very proud that the Commonwealth Games are being held in India.”
The shuttler added that she had participated in the stadiums in Delhi during the Asian badminton Championship and had a good time playing there.“I denied the reports because I was a little disappointed after making the comments. It is not good on my part to say it as lots of people follow me,” she said.
Earlier in the day, talking to reporters in Hyderabad on the sidelines of a function, Nehwal said: “Looking at the stadiums and looking at the progress, I don’t really think we are capable of holding such big tournaments because you know, I have seen many Games like the Commonwealth Games in Melbourne (in 2006) and Olympic Games in Beijing (in 2008). Compared to that it is not up to the mark. But I am sure that before 3rd of October it will be ready, and you know, people will like it. But with the comparisons of those games, things are not up to the mark.”
On the controversies plaguing the Games, she said that it was common in India when such tournaments are held.“It happens when such big tournaments are held in India, such controversies are there with the wallpaper, but then, we can’t do anything. We just have to prepare and be ready for the tournament,” she added.
Aussies disagree over team uniform for Commonwealth Games 2010
Saturday, September 04, 2010 12:04:58 PM
Melbourne, Sept 4: A Australian team has disagreed over Commonwealth Games 2010. The Olympic gold medallist swimmer Leisel Jones saying she loves it, while fashion designer George Gross says they are just “blah” and “gaga”.
Gross said that he wishes organizers would do something new for a change, and added that it looks like the Indian prompted designers to go gaga with the shirt colors. The grey suits with brightly coloured shirts are the official outfits of Australian athletes. It is unveiled by Table Eight Corporate on September 3 on the Melbourne Spring Fashion Week catwalk.
Athletes will be wearing lightweight grey cotton suits, with emerald shirts for the women, and orange for the men, and they will wear bright blue and yellow polo T-shirts, with pants or tailored shorts for official functions. During competition they will be wearing the traditional wattle gold and green.
Herald Sun quoted him as saying that, “They would have been better off leaving the vivid colours to the host nation - they do it so much better. Don’t mind the grey/khaki base colour, but the women’s suit is a bit blah in both design and fit”
He also said, “White shirts with the grey/khaki would look cleaner and sharper in that glorious sunshine in India. The colors of the sport uniforms are no doubt dictated by tradition, but I so wish we could do something new”
Jones, 25, one of Australia’s great hopes in the pool, however finds the national outfits cool and flattering. “The skirt is really gorgeous. It’s a great shape, so, I love it,” she said.
She stated, “It’s very hard to work with green and gold to make it look good, but this is actually a really good shade of green, and I think the boys will be happy with orange. It is a bit of a difference. I think it will be nice.”
Delhi Traffic Police issues road advisory in view of CWG
Friday, September 03, 2010 8:07:52 PM
New Delhi, Sep 3:
“We appeal to the citizens, that there are some roads where traffic problems might occur because one of their lanes is dedicated for the Commonwealth Games traffic. So, if generally these roads can be avoided then they should and use available alternate routes so as to face less inconvenience,” said Special Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Ajay Chadha.
Delhi Traffic Police appealed to the citizens on Friday to abide by the road rules & restrictions for avoiding traffic chaos and fines. Trials for lanes and diversions would commence from Saturday along certain roads leading to venues of mega event. They advised Delhites to keep away from certain routes to avoid traffic congestions.
Chadha specified the names of the roads, where there might be more traffic problems.
“Most of the roads have three lanes, and if we have taken one lane so then also the traffic will run smoothly. However, roads like Sardar Patel, Panchsheel Marg, etc. are just two-lane roads, here the traffic chaos can be more,” he said.
There are 36 reserved lanes from international airport to the Games Village and other venues. Lanes will be on the right side of the roads and earmarked by broad blue bands and Commonwealth Games logo.
Chadha added that around 2000 traffic police personnel would be deployed along Games route.“They would monitor and levy fines on those drivers straying into the CWG lanes from September 20 when the athletes start arriving. There will be zero tolerance during this period and we will be doing maximum prosecutions. We have already given our proposal for dedicated lanes; we will get the orders in other one or two days,” said Chadha.“The penalty for prohibition on Games lane will amount to rupees 2000 ($43). The lane will be declared under 115 Motor Vehicle Act, the violation for which is rupees 2000. The dedicated lane is part of the contract entered into by the host city and Commonwealth Games Federation,” he added.
The lanes will be used for smooth movement of Games officials and wallpaperpersons till October 16.The 2010 Commonwealth Games, which kicks off on October 3, is India’s biggest sporting event since the 1982 Asian Games. India is expecting about two million tourists in New Delhi for the Games, as well as about 10,000 athletes from 71 teams representing 54 Commonwealth member states.
CWG’s Organising Committee to ensure efficient cleaning and waste management
New Delhi, Aug. 31:
In a bid to facilitate smooth functioning of all the venues during 2010 Commonwealth Games, the Organising Committee Commonwealth Games 2010 Delhi has made elaborate arrangements to ensure efficient Cleaning and Waste Management.
To ensure the primary collection of waste across venues, the OC has engaged three cleaning vendors– ISS, Sarvatra and A2Z Maintenance & Engineering Services– to deal with an estimated 1,63,200 kg. of waste per day.
These vendors have been entrusted with the responsibility at the total cost of Rs. 21 crore through a global open tender process. The contract is for the period from August 1 to October 30, 2010.
ISS has the mandate of cleaning of the Main Press Centre and International Broadcasting Centre at the ITPO, Pragati Maidan, while Sarvatra will be taking care of the Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Aquatics Complex and the Talkatora Indoor Stadium. A2Z Maintenance & Engineering Services will be dealing with all other venues.
The service providers will arrange the requisite consumables and bins for primary collection and move them to the Waste Compound at each venue.
The municipal agencies, NDMC and MCD, are responsible for secondary collection from the Waste Compounds for disposal.
Eleven Waste Compounds have been identified at all venues with the association of NDMC, MCD and CRPF.
A total of 1100 waste bins have been provided by the municipal agencies. The waste will be divided into three categories - biodegradable, recyclable and sanitary waste. These will be collected in colour coded bins. Environment-friendly and World Health Organization approved chemicals are being used for disposal purposes.
Organising Committee has put in a team of 51 people to ensure world-class cleaning and waste management. Five of these people will be deployed at the OC headquarters and the rest at different venues, to ensure planning and coordination with the relevant civic agencies.
OC Commonwealth Games 2010 Delhi is committed to provide international standard of cleaning at all venues.
Queen’s Baton Relay to Bangalore welcomed by Padukone, Kumble, Dravid to Welcome
Tuesday, August 31, 2010 4:08:31 PM
New Delhi, Aug.31: Queen’s Baton Relay for XIX Commonwealth Games 2010 Delhi, would reach Bangalore on September 2 and would be welcomed by well-known stars Indian wallpaper.
Participation list includes former Commonwealth Games badminton gold medalist and All-England champion Prakash Padukone, cricketing legends G.R. Vishwanath, Anil Kumble and Rahul Dravid, Karnataka’s first Olympian Kenneth Powell, Dronacharya Award winning boxer Captain. M. Venu, tennis ace Mahesh Bhupathi, Asian Games hockey gold medalist Sabu Varkey and Arjuna Awardees Chetan Baboor (table tennis), Nisha Millet (swimming), Reeth Abraham (athletics) and Ashwini Nachappa (athletics).
The baton shall also be received by Karnataka Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa with state Olympic Association President K. Govindraj.
Large number of wallpaperpersons and wallpaper lovers from urban, sub-urban and rural areas would participate in the event.
Baton will travel to Hassan on September 4 and to Mangalore before concluding Karnataka journey at Karwar. It would then reach Panjim in Goa on September 7.
Bangalore leg would mark Day 69 of the 100-day QBR journey. South India leg of relay commenced mid-August in Hyderabad and has already covered Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep and Kerala before entering Karnataka through Mysore.
The QBR has seen widespread participation from former and current athletes and wallpaperpersons apart from a lot of enthusiasm from all walks of society including the youth, students, celebrities and the political spectrum.
Cyclists take part in race to promote Commonwealth Games
New Delhi, Aug 29:
Hundreds of cyclists took part in a cyclothon here on Sunday, as a sort of ‘curtain-raiser’ for the upcoming Commonwealth Games.
The event comprised of five categories — Professional, National, Amateur and Corporate, Green Ride and Children.
Participants hoped their performance would enable them to participate in the 12-day sporting extravaganza of the Commonwealth Games.“I want the authorities to see my performance and allow me to participate in the Games. I want to do something for my country. My coach is training me,” said Sachin Kumar, who stood first in the national event category.
India is expecting about two million tourists in New Delhi for the Games, as well as about 10,000 athletes from 71 teams representing 54 Commonwealth member states.
Kiran Bedi: Delhi needs leaders at the ground level
New Delhi, Aug 26:
India’s first woman Indian Police Service officer Kiran Bedi, who is often described as a national role model, says the capital has fallen back on visible leadership at the ground level.“The capital needs visible leadership on ground. We have given up on certain problems, resulting in frequent violations of law,” said Bedi.“We have to deploy more resources, better technology with a certain amount of innovation for better enforcement of law and regulation,” she added.
Theme song for 2010 C’wealth Games launched
Gurgaon, Aug.28:
Audience was enthralled with the theme sone “Jiyo, Utho, Badho, Jeeto”, at Kingdom of Dreams, Gurgaon by A.R. Rahman on Saturday. The sone was performed at the launch at Kingdom of Dreams, Gurgaon.
Rahman said: “It has not been easy. Got the first lines six months ago and a lot of modifications have gone in, post that. I kept tweaking it and finally finished it last night”.
Rahman shall perform the song on October 3, during Opening Ceremony of the Games of Commonwealth Games 2010 Delhi. Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit and Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda were also present.
“Rahman is one of the jewels of India and he has done an excellent job with the Theme Song for the Delhi 2010. I urge people to come out, cheer the athletes and be a part of this sporting extravaganza,” said Suresh Kalmadi, Chairman of the Organising Committee for Commonwealth Games 2010 Delhi
“We promise that we will give you great games and we have to live up to that promise. Let there be no doubt about it at all. Everybody is working like a team- Team India. We will have great opening and closing ceremonies that will depict 5000 years of Indian culture. We can and we will make these Games as best ever games,” he added.
Sheila Dikshit, Delhi Chief Minister said: “I join everybody else in the belief that the Games which have come to India for the first time will be the most memorable Commonwealth Games ever. I believe that Delhi with India behind it will be able to achieve what a lot of people think it can’t. Delhi is India’s capital and the success of these Games will be the pride of all of us. We could not have got a better person than Mr. Rahman to make us swing and play during the games.”
Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda, added: “Commonwealth Games will be celebrated like a festival which has begun today. We will provide our whole hearted support to Mr. Kalmadi and his team for Delhi 2010. As far as the medal tally is concerned, I wish to reassure our countrymen that Haryana will have the top position in domestic tally with our performance as we had done in the Beijing Olympics. The games are a matter of pride not only for the city of Delhi, but for Haryana and the rest of the country also.”
Kalmadi seeks Indian Army’s assistance for 2010 CWG
New Delhi, Aug 21:
Commonwealth Games Organising Committee Chairman Suresh Kalmadi has sought the help of Indian Army personnel for specific tasks to ensure a successful conduct of the 2010 Games.
Briefing media after a meeting of the Group of Ministers (GoM) here on Friday, Kalmadi said Union Urban Development Minister S Jaipal Reddy, who is also the chairman of the GoM for the Commonwealth Games has written a letter to Defence Minister A K Antony requesting him to depute Army personnel and not to charge for certain facilities. “The Group of Ministers (GoM), Jaipal Reddy, had requested the Defence Minister that the Army should do it free of charge. So, they have agreed to do something free of charge, and something they are charging,” he added.
Jaipal Reddy in his statement mentioned that though he had written the letter, the contents of which can’t be quoted and certain communication agencies have been asked to act in tandem.
Earlier on Thursday, the Central Government had appointed a 10-member panel to oversee preparations of the Games and stripped Kalmadi of his powers.
The panel includes J S Deepak, Amarjeet Singh, Subodh Kumar, S R Rao, Shashi Shekhar, Gopal Krishna, Rohit Nandan and Rajeev Kapoor.
The Commonwealth Games 2010 is India’s biggest sporting event since the 1982 Asian Games.
India is expecting about two million tourists in New Delhi for the Games, as well as about 10,000 athletes from 71 teams representing 54 Commonwealth member states.
Organising Committee announces caterer for Commonwealth Games
Sunday, August 22, 2010 11:39:15 AM
New Delhi, Aug 22: The names of the organizations which bagged catering contracts for Games were announced by The Organising Committee of Commonwealth Games
Member of the Commonwealth Games Organising Committee, Sanjeev Mittal pointed out that prices quoted earlier were too high, prompting committee to opt for different packages.
Mittal said “The request for a proposal was issued long ago, but the rates which were achieved were too high, and the committee was not in a position to pay that higher cost for the obligatory meals. So, that is how it was decided to go in for different packages,”.
“Out of these eight clusters, five have been awarded to a Delhi firm called Seven Seas Private Limited. One cluster is being awarded to a public sector under Ministry of Railways that is IRCTC, (Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Corporation Limited), and two to a Mumbai-based firm that is Graviss Hospitality Private Limited,” he added.
Thompson said “ While Mittal is in charge of caterers for the venue, the Games Village’s catering is handled by another member of the Organizing Committee, G. G. Thompson.”About the (Games) Village catering, we have the master caterer is already in place. It’s a company called Delaware North of Australia, and they are the master caterers,”. He further added that menu would be diverse in the village and estimated the total cost to be Rs 939 million.“All the kitchen equipments were being airlifted from London at a cost of Rs 85.9 million, and that installation would amount Rs 95 million,” he said.
Queen’s Baton reaches Chennai
Saturday, August 21, 2010 11:38:09 AM
Chennai, Aug 21: The Queen’s Baton reached Tamil Nadu’s Chennai city on Friday amidst all the allegations of corruption in Commonwealth Games-related projects.
The Tamil Nadu leg relay was formally flagged off by State Deputy Chief Minister M K Stalin with world chess champion Grandmaster Viswanathan Anand and Olympian Jayalakshmi.
Vasudevan Bhaskaran, captain of the Indian hockey team that won gold medal at Moscow Olympiad in 1980 said “Overall, Commonwealth Games is definitely very important. Number one is Olympics; number two is World Cup and number three is Commonwealth Games. So in that arena, the performance will definitely the help Indian people to get the higher rank to go for World Cup, get more confidence to go for the Olympics,”
“We have to cross this hurdle and go for World Cup and Olympics,” he added.
The next destination is the Union Territory of Puducherry.
“It is the first time I have run with a baton and I enjoyed it very much. I wish the games all the success,” said Chess Grandmaster Vishwanathan Anand.
Ramesh Krishnan, V Bhaskaran, V J Philips, Gnanasekaran, Sebastian Xavier, Riyaz Khan, Sridharan, Joshna Chinnappa, Dipika Pallikal, Sarath Kamal, Shiny Wilson and Wilson Cherian were other wallpaper persons, who were present on the occasion to take part in the Baton’s relay run at Chennai in Tamil Nadu.
India expects about two million tourists in New Delhi for the Games and about 10,000 athletes from 71 teams representing 54 Commonwealth member states.
Queen’s Baton Relay Welcomed in Chennai by Anand, Krishnan
Friday, August 20, 2010 12:50:35 PM
New Delhi, Aug.20: Few top names in India wallpaper will welcome Queen’s Baton Relay for the XIX Commonwealth Games 2010 Delhi. The Baton would reach Chennai on August 20 from Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Those participating in relay include Vishwanathan Anand (current and four time world chess champion), Ramesh Krishnan (tennis legend), former Asian Games 800m gold medalist Shiny Wilson, squash ace Joshna Chinappa, former Indian hockey captain Mohammad Riaz, Hockey player Vijay Philips, Arjuna and Dronacharya Awardee G. Sreedharan, athlete Gyaneshwaran and former champion swimmers Sebastian Xavier and Wilson Cherian.
The baton will reach Puducherry on August 21 before touching Thanjavur, Rameshwaram, Madurai and Kanyakumari, then Kerala on August 26 before coming back to Tamil Nadu to visit Wellington and Ootacamund before it heads for Karnataka on September 1.
The Chennai leg would mark the 56th day of the 100 day relay.
The Relay sees enthusiastic participation from former & current athletes as well as wallpaperpersons and support from all walks of society including youth, students, celebrities and political spectrum.
Competition venues visited by Delhi 2010 Top Brass
Saturday, August 14, 2010 6:12:42 PM
New Delhi, Aug.14: The Organising Committee Commonwealth Games 2010 Delhi Vice-Chairman Randhir Singh and Secretary General Dr. Lalit K Bhanot have been visiting the competition venues in the past four days for inspecting the delay in construction work. Suresh Kalmadi, Organising Committee Chairman led the visit to Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium Complex.
The Organising Committee top brass ensured that the venue operations team properly started work required for the games. “You have been charged with the task of making these facilities really world class,” says Kalmadi to the venue Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium Complex operations team.“The successful delivery of the Games is in our hands and the Organising Committee completely depends on you to ensure that all the planning is actualised,” he added. “Given the levels of commitment and passion that I see, I am confident the teams will deliver. There is no room for complacency,” said Randhir Singh. He instructs that there are no luxury of delays now and the task needs to be completed within the timelines.
“I believe that the issues will be resolved by August 16,” Randhir Singh said.
The top brass visited Talkatora Indoor Stadium, Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium Complex, Siri Fort Sports Complex, Dr. Karni Singh Shooting Ranges, Indira Gandhi Sports Complex and Yamuna Sports Complex.
Commonwealth Games Medals has been unveiled
Friday, August 06, 2010 7:45:51 PM
New Delhi, Aug 6: Medals for Commonwealth Games were unveiled today by Suresh Kalmadi, Organising Committee chairman. He hoped India would win more medals and would improve their fourth place finish in Melbourne.
He says “Last time around the Indian team got 50 medals and came fourth in the games. This time we expect to come third. We can come second as well. We hope 70 of these wonderful medals will be won by Indian athletes. India finished fourth in the medal tally at Melbourne. We are hopeful of moving to the third place this time.“There will be 271 gold medals, 271 silver medals and 282 bronze medals. The front of the medal has the Delhi logo. The back of the medal has the emblem of Commonwealth Games. The manufacturing of the medals is in full swing. There will 1,408 medals awarded in the CWG, including the multiple medals in the team events. The cost of each gold medal is Rs.5,539, silver is Rs.4,818 and the bronze cost Rs.4,529 each. The total cost of the medals is Rs.81.08 lakh,”
Kalmadi also pointed out to the OC headquarters “The Prime Minister has given us Rs.700 crore ($7 billion) for training of athletes. I am confident that will reflect in India’s medal tally.”
India Government Mint, Kolkata handled the design, development and manufacture of the medals. Medal design is simple & the dominant form is a rising upward spiral that starts taking shape from plain textured base, gradually becoming highlight of the medal. The same is known to represent rise to glory for each athlete.
The medal front has Commonwealth Games 2010 Delhi logo and dates. Back comprises of the emblem of the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF). Medal is 6 mm thick with a diameter of 63.5 mm. The lanyard of the medal carries all six Games colours (pink, purple, green, red, yellow and blue) blending into each other. It is created with Delhi 2010 brand and design elements.
It has a black background enhancing the logo embossed on top in Gold, Silver or Bronze - matching the medal inside. The color and simplicity of the box is keeping with the significance of the product it carries. The black base provides an appropriate background to the multi-hued lanyard and the medal itself.
Kalmadi all set to face any CAG scrutiny on alleged CWG scam
Wednesday, August 04, 2010 11:53:47 AM
New Delhi, Aug.4: Suresh Kalmadi (Chairman of the organising committee of the Delhi Commonwealth Games and Indian Olympic Association chief) pointed out on Wednesday that he could face all types of Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) scrutiny or even judicial probe for alleged illegal financial transactions which were reported by the media.
Kalmadi said: “Sixty days are left for the start of XIX Commonwealth Games 2010 to be held in New Delhi and 43 days for Games Village to open when about 8000 athletes and Officials from all continents of the world start arriving to participate in the Games.
During the last week, media has come out with various stories regarding the irregularities in the orders / procurement etc. of QBR Launch Function at London / Overlays and association of M/S Sports Marketing and Management (SMAM) in obtaining the Sponsorship for the games.
I have taken a serious note of these reports and appointed a three member committee headed by Mr. Jarnail Singh, the Chief Executive Officer and two members, Mr. G. C. Chaturvedi (IAS), Special Director General and Ms. Gurjot Kaur (IDAS) Chief Vigilance Officer of Organising Committee to look into all the details of QBR Launch Function, Overlays and SMAM issues. The Committee has been asked to submit its report by August 5, 2010.”“The financial procedures at the Organising Committee are well laid down and transparent. Any proposal that is prepared by the Functional Area Head first gets vetted by the O. C. Finance Committee which has two representatives of Government of India, and after that it is referred to Finance Sub-Committee, comprising of three Senior representatives of Government of India. There after, the proposals are submitted to the Executive Board for its final approval. Chairman O.C., in his individual capacity does not have any financial powers,” he added.
The statement came a day after Kalmadi met External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna to clarify Commonwealth Games stand on the UK money trail.
Controversy emerged over charges that UK-based firm AM Films is being used as conduit for siphoning off crores of rupees (lakhs of pounds) that have been sanctioned by government for the smooth execution of games.
While Kalmadi claimed publicly that protocol division of the Indian High Commission in London cleared the firm to do business with Commonwealth Games Organising Committee, the high commission as well as Ministry of External Affairs denied giving any such sanction.
The Sports Ministry asked Kalmadi to remove his close aide T.S. Darbari from the CWG Organising Committee, compounding his problems further.
Darbari is currently the Deputy Department General of the Games panel and has come under the scanner after reports emerged about his association with AM films, a little-known UK firm that was paid lakhs of pounds by the CWG Organising Committee for its “services” during the London leg of the Queen’s Baton relay.
Investigations revealed that AM Films and sister concerns are suspect business entities that were paid 2,50,000 pounds without any written contract.
The company had faced liquidation in July 2010. A day after getting the liquidation notice, its director Ashish Patel resigned from his post. The liquidation notice was later withdrawn after the company gave an explanation. Even its sister organisation, AM Car and Van Hire Company filed for liquidation in July 2010.
AM Films is currently facing a probe by UK Customs and Revenue Department.
Media reports claim that the money trail leading to UK is key proof of the rampant corruption in the Commonwealth Games 2010.
Kalmadi called a meeting of Commonwealth Games Executive Board on August 5 to discuss allegations of corruption on a demand of Commonwealth Games Federation.
Technical teams shifted to Games Venues
Tuesday, August 03, 2010 11:25:28 AM
New Delhi, Aug 3: The Secretary General of Lalit Bhanot Commonwealth Games Organising Committee (CGOC) says the technical teams for Commonwealth Games have been moved to the respective games stadia and work on the overlays have been commenced.
Bhanot said: ” Our entire staff of around 700 people has shifted to the stadiums and a formal take over of the venues will begin from today.” The venue operation teams have already started the work from there but this is the formal thing that it comes the total control of the stadiums (stadia) come with the OC (Organising Committee). Earlier it was with the venue owner but our teams were there, they were given a place to sit but now the entire operation will be in the hands of the OC,” he added.
“We are ready to host Games as far as technical conduct of the Games is concerned. The overlay work has already started since our teams are there for the last 15 days. We will get most of the stadiums by August 15 and remaining by August 30,” he added.
Bhanot said the OC would ask the venue owners to provide all the necessary clearances along with the stadiums.“All the mandatory clearances like safety of the building, fire certificate, power certificate will be provided to us by the venue owners,” he added.
Commonwealth Games 2010 will be held from October 3 to 14 in New Delhi and IIndia is expecting about two million tourists in New Delhi for the Games, as well as about 10,000 athletes from 71 teams representing 54 Commonwealth member states.
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