From torrential rain to typhoon threat: Asian Games face turbulent start
The Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya are at risk of disruption due to an impending tropical storm. Organisers are on high alert, as ongoing heavy rain has already led to the suspension and rescheduling of numerous events. In an unfortunate turn for China's cricket team, their campaign ended without any play taking place, all thanks to the relentless wet conditions.
NAGOYA, September 17 — The chief organiser of the Asian Games in Japan has defended the temporary accommodation provided for more than 17,000 athletes and officials. Organisers are housing participants in various temporary setups, including a cruise liner, wooden containers, and hotel rooms, in an effort to curb costs. However, the plan has faced immediate criticism from South Korean officials who described the container huts as "the worst ever" and complained about the beds being too short. Another team official even opted for a hotel room after entering the accommodation facility.
Organising Committee President Hideaki Omura, who also serves as governor of Aichi prefecture, assured that efforts are being made to address the numerous complaints from disgruntled teams. Omura stated that they will respond appropriately to different opinions and continue to improve the situation as issues arise. Byeon Jun-hyeong, a South Korean basketball player, shared a video on social media highlighting a leaking sink and a soaked floor in his hut accommodation, urging for help.
About 2,000 people were temporarily evacuated from the huts due to record rainfall in Nagoya last week.
The Asian Games, which are taking place at a time when typhoons are common in Japan, have experienced heavy rainfall in recent weeks. Omura emphasized the priority of ensuring athletes' and officials' safety while on board. Plans for the temporary huts, built this year, received a favorable assessment from a committee of former athletes, including Olympians.
About 4,000 athletes and officials will also reside on the Italian cruise ship Costa Serena, which arrived in Nagoya on Tuesday. Cruise ships have previously been used as accommodation at international sports events but never on such a massive scale.
While athletes from 45 countries and territories will compete in over 40 sports across two weeks, ticket sales for lesser-known sports like cricket have been slow. Omura expressed hope that Japan's residents would take the opportunity to watch these events, particularly cricket, and contribute to the spirit of friendly competition amidst political tensions.
Written by urgent.news from Malay Mail's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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