New Delhi: The Commonwealth Games Federation on Monday decided to form an independent panel to monitor the preparations for the 2010 edition of the Commonwealth Games in New Delhi and bluntly reminded the organisers that time was the "biggest enemy".
"I have no doubt that the 2010 games can still be great games, provided all corrective measures are taken and there is no further slippage," said Michael Fennell, president of the federation, at a press conference in New Delhi.
"Two years before the games, I had told the OC (organising committee) that time was not your friend and now one year before it, I say time is your enemy. But together, we can defeat it," he said.
"The CGF (Commonwealth Games Federation) Executive Board has decided to establish a high-level, independent, technical review panel, that will monitor the progress (of games preparation). This panel will comprise chairman and other members who will be experts in their field. They would give us monthly report on in an open, transparent fashion," said Fennell.
The Commonwealth Coordination Commission would also maintain its monitoring, he said. "The Commission will continue its visit and they would come next on December 14 to address all key areas and all operational areas."
Fennell said a Chef-de-Missions meeting would be held in March 2010 where the head of the missions would take stock of the progress and return home accordingly. The CGF chief identified infrastructure and security as two important areas and sounded confident with both.
"A great deal has been discussed and achieved. Despite lagging behind, we feel the venues would be ready in 2010 well before testing events. That remains a top priority because venues cannot afford anymore slippage and it should be ensured that the new deadlines are met.
"We fully acknowledge the strong commitment of the Indian and Delhi government to complete the venues and Games Village on time and with due diligence, this can be done," he said.
On the safety aspect of the Games, Fennell said, "During the visit, we also witness the commitment of security. Everyone here for the CGF General Assembly felt they have been operation in a safe and secure environment and this can be extended to the Games itself
Fennell, earlier on Monday, said that the initial reports on India's preparations for the games were not accurate.
"We have come here amidst many reports about Delhi's preparedness, which are not quite accurate. Attention is being paid by the Government of India through (Sports) minister MS Gill, who has assured that all the resources that are necessary to ensure the successful celebration of the games in 2010 will be provided," said Fennell.
Fennell went around New Delhi visiting all the venues and the Games Village that are being constructed for the October 3-14 games next year.
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