Denis Oswald, head of the IOC’s inspection committee for the Athens 2004 Summer Games, told the Associated Press Saturday following a two-day inspection visit of Athens 2004, that he “cannot accept” any work on the steel-and glass roof over the main Olympic stadium after the end of June.
The IOC is concerned that last minute attempts to pull together the roof could disrupt essential projects such as installing technical networks in the stadium and finishing cosmetic elements like landscaping.
April 28 is another key date, said Oswald. It’s the last possible day for two huge arches to be put in place. If not, he said the translucent strands intended to link the arches will be cancelled.
“We are convinced they will be able to move the arches, but it has never been done. It’s why you have to be prepared for any difficulty…but they are confident they can do it”.
Another major concern is the installation of the last 200 kilometres of fibre optic cables needed for television coverage. A total of 1,200 kilometres is needed but delays at venues and transport projects have stalled the work.
Oswald emphasized that all measures have to be taken because they need television. He added that it wasn’t an option – this has to be put in place.
Oswald said officials will scale back a new tram line to have it ready for the Games.
They will also try to have a new suburban rail running from the airport to the main stadium as originally planned but contingencies to use shuttle buses are being made if deadlines are too tight, said Oswald.
Because a roof has been scrapped at the swimming facility Oswald said a covering will protect the athletes from the heat and broadcasters will use special lights to reduce shadows. The world swimming federation may be forced to reschedule the competition away from the midday sun.
Meanwhile the Greek government wants the public to support the massive security measures planned for the Games after some of the 6,000 spectators at the flame lighting ceremony grew impatient with the long lines caused by a police cordon.
It’s reported that one group even by-passed security checks by going under a bridge and marched into the area staging the event.
A public order ministry statement said Friday, “we ask for the cooperation of citizens”. The lighting ceremony was “the first critical test of Olympic security plans”.
Hundreds of police officers, a police helicopter, a special counter-terrorism unit, and commandos hiding in laurel groves provided security for the ceremony.
