Paris Olympics struggle with heat, food shortages and thefts

Athletes at the Paris Olympics are grappling with multiple challenges, including extreme heat, transport issues and thefts, according to the India-based news outlet, the Indian Express.

A 45-minute bus ride from the Olympic Village to the Table Tennis Arena has become a nightmare for many, as media outlets claim.

An Indian boxer described a non-air-conditioned coach on one of the hottest days of the Games as a “journey to hell,” with minimal ventilation and suffocating conditions.

Rumors about food shortages, rationing

Food shortages have also become a major concern according to the media outlet.

Athletes, including India’s top-ranked singles tennis player Sumit Nagal and badminton doubles star Chirag Shetty, have voiced their dissatisfaction.

The sprawling Olympic Village, home to thousands of athletes, has failed to provide adequate meals.

Reports from the dining hall indicate long queues and insufficient food supplies, with vegetarian items and even eggs and grilled meats being rationed.

Accommodation, comfort issues

The decision to exclude air conditioning from athletes’ rooms to reduce the carbon footprint has backfired amid a heat wave in Paris.

Many athletes are struggling to sleep in the hot, cramped quarters.

U.S. tennis sensation Coco Gauff showcased the cramped living conditions in a TikTok video, highlighting the challenges athletes face.

An Indian table tennis player also mentioned uncomfortable “cardboard” beds that initially disrupted sleep.

Security concerns have escalated with reports of thefts within the Village.

A Japanese rugby player and an Australian coach have reported stolen items, including a wedding ring and a credit card.

According to the Indian Express, the Indian athletes have been advised to store their valuables in safety vaults following these incidents.

The Indian contingent has proactively arranged additional vehicles to ensure timely transport for athletes.

This measure has proved crucial for the badminton players and equestrian team members, who faced delays with the official bus services.

Athletes’ feedback, future improvements

An Indian professional tennis player, Sumit Nagal, criticized the overall organization, expressing that the world’s biggest sporting event deserved better planning.

The challenges faced by athletes, from transport woes to inadequate food and security issues, highlight the need for improvements in future events.