Badminton World Championships in New Delhi Ready After Venue Overhaul

The Badminton World Federation (BWF) and Badminton Association of India (BAI) have taken extensive steps to address the problems that marred the India Open earlier this year. Improvements at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium include deep cleaning, renovation of all toilets, replacement of damaged seats, roof waterproofing, and the application of gel on roof beams to deter pigeons. Stray dogs have been rounded up, and lighting has been upgraded with the help of Indonesian consultants. BWF officials said recent inspections showed the venue is now clean, well‑ventilated and free of birds and monkeys.

Organisers are confident the August 17‑23 World Championships will run smoothly, with better air quality expected during the monsoon season. Top players such as Shi Yu Qi, Akane Yamaguchi and India’s PV Sindhu will compete, and BWF Secretary General Thomas Lund and Events Director Selvaamresh Supramaniam praised the progress made since the January criticisms.