'CWG venues to be ready by August 25'

Satisfied with the preparation of Commonwealth Games venues, Organising Committee vice-chairman Randhir Singh on Monday said all the stadiums are in "top-class shape" and will be ready by August 25.

Randhir, who visited the venues along with OC chairman Suresh Kalmadi and secretary general Lalit Bhanot, said little bit of finishing work which remains will be completed in a week's time.

"It has given me personal satisfaction to inspect each and every venue except for the Khadarpur shooting range. Initially I was worried and nervous but now I can assure you that all the venues are in top-class shape," Randhir said.

"The fields of play in all the stadiums were already in shape but now most of the rubbles have been cleaned. The beautification work, including plantation of greenery, is going on. It is a very encouraging sign," said Randhir, who is also the secretary general of the Indian Olympic Association.

"We checked each and everything minutely. Although minor work still remains, everything will be completed in a week's time. By August 25 all the things will be done," he added.

With the Games struck by charges of corruption, Randhir, OC chairman Suresh Kalmadi and secretary general Lalit Bhanot visited the Talkatora Indoor Stadium, Major Dhyan Chand

National Stadium, Jawaharal Nehru Stadium complex, Siri Fort Sports Complex, Dr Karni Singh Shooting Ranges, Indira Gandhi Sports Complex and Yamuna Sports Complex in the last one week to take stock of the preparations.

Randhir also said that the Games Village will open on September 16 to accommodate some foreign athletes who will be in the Capital by September 15 for registration.

Shivaji Stadium, a training venue for hockey, is running against time to be ready for the Games but Bhanot, who is also the OC spokesman said it is not at all a matter of concern.

"Shivaji Stadium is a training venue. There were some court cases which is the reason behind its delay. But even if it does not finish within time we have the Yamuna Sports Complex and other stadiums for training," Bhanot said.