Badminton World Championships organisers promise a cleaner Delhi venue after bird droppings, pollution and stray animals marred the India Open.
New Delhi organisers have promised a cleaner Badminton World Championships after bird droppings, air pollution, cold conditions and stray animals overshadowed January’s India Open.
The championships will take place at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium from August 17 to 23. The Badminton World Federation and the Badminton Association of India say preparations remain on schedule.
However, the tournament will test whether organisers have addressed the problems that drew criticism from international players.
Singapore’s Loh Kean Yew said Delhi’s air quality made breathing difficult. Denmark’s Mia Blichfeldt described the conditions as unhealthy, while Thailand’s Ratchanok Intanon complained about the cold inside the venue.
Delhi Responds to India Open Chaos
One of the most embarrassing incidents occurred during Loh’s match against India’s H.S. Prannoy.
Officials stopped play twice after birds fouled the court. Debris from a bird’s nest also reportedly fell during another match.
A monkey entered a training venue used by players, while other stray animals were found around the sporting complex.
Organisers have now inspected and waterproofed parts of the stadium roof. They have also tested the air-conditioning system, upgraded lighting and strengthened cleaning procedures.
The Badminton Association of India introduced a triple-door entry system, sealed access points and round-the-clock security. Officials are also working with local authorities to relocate stray animals near the venue.
BWF Secretary General Thomas Lund said Delhi’s air quality should be better during the August monsoon than it was during January’s colder winter conditions.
Sindhu Leads India’s Challenge
Two-time Olympic medallist P.V. Sindhu will lead India’s women’s singles challenge. China’s Shi Yu Qi and Japan’s Akane Yamaguchi are expected to defend their world titles.
The event will be India’s first Badminton World Championships since Hyderabad hosted the tournament in 2009.
For Delhi, success will depend on more than results. Organisers must prove they can deliver a clean, safe and professionally managed tournament after the India Open controversy.
