Asian Games: SAI Arranges Extra Transport, Accommodation for Indian Athletes

The Sports Authority of India (SAI) has stepped up logistical and medical support for the Indian contingent at the Asian Games in Japan, arranging additional transport and accommodation following complaints over delays and facilities at the Games.

SAI said on Tuesday that dedicated transport has been arranged for Indian shooters travelling to and from the shooting venue in Toyota city, Aichi prefecture, located more than 75 km from Nagoya. Reports of delays in local transport had affected the training and competition schedules of some shooters.

The sports body has also arranged rooms for coaches and support staff who could not be accommodated by the Games Organising Committee because of limited availability. In addition, cars have been provided to Indian medical teams to help them move efficiently between competition venues and provide timely assistance to athletes.

A dedicated Reception and Assistance Team comprising representatives of SAI, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) and the Embassy of India in Japan has also been deployed at the airport. The team is helping arriving athletes, coaches and support staff with arrival formalities, refreshments, onward travel and accommodation guidance.

The Games organisers have faced criticism over logistical difficulties ahead of and during the opening phase of the event. Several athletes, including members of the Indian contingent, reportedly faced lengthy waits for accommodation and transport. There were also complaints about a lack of refreshments, with some athletes reportedly sleeping on floors after exhausting journeys.

SAI said the 501-member Indian contingent would receive all possible support and that it was working closely with the IOA, the Indian Embassy and the Organising Committee to ensure coordinated logistical, medical and operational assistance.

The Sports Ministry had earlier sought help from the Indian diaspora in Japan to address the accommodation shortage, with several members offering assistance.

India won 106 medals at the previous edition of the Asian Games.