The Indian Sports Ministry has taken a significant and heartwarming step to ensure the well-being of its athletes participating in the Paris Olympic Games. Amid soaring temperatures and the lack of adequate cooling in the athletes' accommodations, the Ministry swiftly responded by providing 40 portable air conditioners to the Indian contingent in the Games Village.
This move comes as a timely intervention to address the discomfort caused by the intense heat and humidity. It also ensures that the athletes can focus on their performances without being hampered by environmental challenges.
BIG BREAKING NEWS 🚨 Indian Sports Ministry dispatches 40 ACs for Indian athletes in Paris.
— Times Algebra (@TimesAlgebraIND) August 3, 2024
Despite the scorching summer heat & humidity, Paris Olympics organisers failed to arrange for AC for all the athletes in the name of Green Olympics.
On some days, temperatures have… pic.twitter.com/f4JaCriW9e
The decision to supply these air conditioners was made after discussions with the Indian Olympic Association and the French Embassy. The extreme temperatures in Paris, which have reportedly reached as high as 40 degrees Celsius, have posed a significant challenge not just to Indian athletes but to competitors from around the world.
India funded these Air Conditioners
The lack of air conditioning in the Games Village, a measure taken by the organizers to reduce the carbon footprint, had raised concerns among several contingents, including India's. The Indian Sports Ministry's decision to fund and provide these plug-and-play air conditioning units demonstrates a deep commitment to the athletes' welfare.
The Ministry recognized the need for immediate action to ensure that the Indian contingent could perform at their best, free from the distraction of oppressive heat. This initiative is expected to significantly enhance the athletes' comfort and rest, which are critical factors in achieving peak performance.
Other countries, including the USA, had already taken similar steps, with some bringing their portable AC units to Paris. India's decision to join this effort underscores the importance of athlete welfare and the lengths to which the Sports Ministry is willing to go to support its representatives on the global stage.