The New Delhi Commonwealth Games would be the first green games adopting eco-friendly practices, said Jiji Thompson, Special Director General, Organising Committee of Commonwealth Games.
Mr. Thompson was speaking at a media briefing held here on Monday.
This would be the first “consumption-neutral” event through sustainable action and demonstration of eco-consciousness in the decision-making process. The organisers will be focusing on waste management, forestation, anti-litter campaigns, sustainable transport, use of renewable energy sources and efficient water management, Mr. Thompson said.
All the 2,000 vehicles for transporting athletes and officials will run on compressed natural gas.
The games authorities have signed an MoU with the United Nations Environmental Programme to assist in the delivery of the Green Games Mandate. The Green Games initiative will be implemented at all competition and non-competition venues. All the venues are being developed using principles of sustainable site planning, design and construction of buildings, he said.
It is expected that 8,000 athletes and officials from 71 Commonwealth Games Associations will attend the games. This is the major multi-sports event to be held in the country after the 1982 New Delhi Asian Games. The authorities are planning to ensure tight security for the games, he said.
Around 30,000 volunteers have been trained for assisting the athletes and visitors.
The Union government has extended a loan of Rs. 2,250 crore for the conduct of the games, which the games authorities hope to repay.
New Delhi and adjoining States will benefit from the infrastructural development that is coming up as part of the 12-day event.
Several States have announced special tour packages in connection with the games. Kerala can also think in terms of such packages, he said.
