Are Delhi Police and NDRF Ready for the World Para Athletics Championship?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Comprehensive safety drills conducted by key agencies.
- Over 1,000 police personnel deployed for security.
- Stadium facilities upgraded to be para-friendly.
- Volunteers trained to support inclusivity.
- Championship to set new standards for accessibility.
New Delhi, Sep 23 (NationPress) The Delhi Police, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), and CATS (Centralised Accident & Trauma Services) executed mock drills at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium focusing on fire safety, bomb threats, accident management, and crowd control to evaluate readiness for the forthcoming 2025 World Para Athletics Championship.
The championship is set to take place from September 27 to October 5, 2025, with the opening ceremony occurring on September 25.
Detailing the safety protocols, Dr. Sarath Chandra Yadav, Administrator of Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, stated: “All ramps have been specially prepared to guarantee seamless access for athletes, while washrooms have been upgraded to be fully para-friendly. Comprehensive mock drills have been successfully conducted, including bomb squad checks, fire safety drills, and CBRN operations to ensure a secure environment with input from all stakeholders: DDMA, NDRF, Delhi Police, Delhi Civil Defence, and CATS. With these meticulous preparations, we are confident and fully ready to host this esteemed championship.”
Sumit Jha, Additional DCP (South West District), revealed that over 1,000 Delhi Police personnel would be assigned for the World Para Athletics Championship across the main venue and two training locations at Thyagaraj Stadium and Commonwealth Games Village.
“For this championship, more than 1,000 police personnel have been deployed. Officers are stationed from the airport to hotels, hospitals, and as part of the players’ transport plans, ensuring close monitoring for their security and smooth movements. Delhi Police has also organized shifts for the event. Security setups are in place at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium and Thyagaraj Sports Complex, covering the event duration from September 27 to October 5. Security has also been arranged for September 25, with a mock drill conducted today,” said Jha, Additional DCP (South West District), Delhi Police.
Additionally, the Paralympic Committee of India hosted a specially-abled sensitization program for both Delhi Police and volunteers to educate them on the do’s and don’ts, para-friendly practices, and athlete etiquette.
More than 300 volunteers were trained to foster a welcoming, inclusive, and safe atmosphere for para-athletes and audiences during the Championships. Delhi Police officials were also briefed to ensure barrier-free access and seamless facilitation for athletes and visitors.
Commenting on the initiative, Bhupinder Singh, Project Head, Svayam, remarked: “Today, over 300 volunteers were sensitized to create a barrier-free and athlete-friendly environment. This initiative will play a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth conduct of the Championships and enhancing experiences for para-athletes and visitors alike.”
The Paralympic Committee of India aims to set new standards for inclusivity and accessibility through these proactive measures before India’s inaugural hosting of the World Para Athletics Championships.