Preparations are in full swing at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium in Delhi ahead of the prestigious BWF World Championship, scheduled to run from August 17 to August 23. Returning to India after a 17-year hiatus, the flagship international badminton tournament will host more than 400 top players from across the globe. To guarantee that no uninvited winged visitors or animals disrupt live matches on the court, authorities have introduced high-tech deterrents and structural upgrades throughout the arena.
Advanced USA Sound Tech and Non-Toxic Slippery Gel Deployed
To eliminate the persistent pigeon problem inside the indoor venue, organizers have applied a non-toxic slippery gel across roof structures and overhead court supports. The chemical-free gel does not harm birds, but effectively prevents them from finding traction or perching anywhere near the playing areas. Additionally, specialized acoustic deterrent units have been imported from the USA. These devices mimic the calls of natural predatory birds, triggering a danger instinct in pigeons and forcing them to stay away from the stadium roof. Modern glass gates are also being installed inside the stadium corridors to block monkeys and unwanted birds from straying into athlete zones.
Lessons Learned from Embarrassing Incidents at the India Open
These rigorous measures come in the wake of severe public embarrassment during the India Open held in January earlier this year. During a live quarter-final match, pigeons flew inside the arena and dropped excrement directly onto the court surface, leading to play being suspended and players refusing to return until conditions improved. Monkeys roaming around the stadium premises also dominated headlines. Danish player Mia Blichfeldt voiced strong complaints about practice court hygiene and bird infestations, while fellow Danish shuttler Anders Antonsen withdrew from the tournament citing hazardous air pollution levels. The series of lapses invited sharp criticism against the tournament organizers, the Sports Ministry, and the Indian government.
Complete Makeover for the Historic Asian Games Venue
To restore international confidence, authorities have undertaken a comprehensive overhaul of the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium. Originally constructed for the 1982 Asian Games and subsequently renovated for the 2010 Commonwealth Games, the historic venue has been updated with brand-new spectator seating, a freshly laid wooden court, an advanced sports lighting system, and full roof waterproofing to eliminate any risk of leaks. With final touches currently being finalized, organizers are set to welcome over 400 international players for a seamless World Championship from August 17 to August 23.
