Commonwealth Games: CEO confident about security

The Commonwealth Games Federation is braced for things to go wrong at the Delhi Games.

But the federation's chief executive, Mike Hooper, says unprecedented security will ensure a safe Games.

Despite widespread problems in the build-up to the October 3-14 Games in the Indian capital, Hooper is adamant security will not be an issue.

About 80,000 Delhi police have been bolstered by 17,500 paramilitaries and 3000 elite commandos in measures Hooper yesterday denied would be oppressive for athletes and spectators.

Some 2000 CCTV cameras have been installed around Games sites.

"I honestly do, hand on heart, believe that we will have a safe and secure environment in and around the Games venues," Hooper said.

"From everything I have known from living here for three years, coming here for seven years, there is certainly no diminution of the commitment given by the Government of India and the Delhi government and Delhi police to deliver a safe and secure environment.

"Now if that means someone is inconvenienced to get access to a venue, so be it - you're inconvenienced, you have to accept that, it's the same with the Olympic Games, people accept it.

"Security is of paramount importance and we cannot compromise and I don't believe anyone is compromising."

Delays in completing venues have meant less time to prepare inside them, raising fears of operational glitches. Of primary concern was the delay in certifying venues as safe - the deadline was nine months ago, the verification happened nine days ago.

Hooper has been impressing on organisers the need to focus on issues that matter for athletes.

They include the athletes' village, which officially opens today; transport; security and smooth running of events.

"If you get those sorts of key issues right," Hooper said, "then I think we have got a very good chance of the athletes at the end of the Games looking back and saying 'we had a great time'."

- AAP