Indian Athletes Sleep In Replica Container Homes Ahead Of Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games

Indian athletes preparing for the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games are spending nights in replica shipping-container homes in Patiala and Bengaluru as part of an unusual orientation exercise designed to prepare them for Games accommodation in Japan.

The Asian Games, scheduled from September 19 to October 4, will not have a traditional athletes' village. More than 17,000 athletes and officials are expected to stay across a cruise ship, hotels and temporary housing units, with around 2,000 participants accommodated in the temporary units.

SAI Creates Container Accommodation

The Sports Authority of India (SAI) has constructed replica accommodation at its centres in Patiala and Bengaluru so athletes can experience the conditions before travelling to Japan.

The 40-foot-long and eight-foot-wide units feature four beds, air conditioning, cupboards, a pantry, refrigerator and washing machine, along with separate toilet, shower and hand-washing areas.

Athletes have been assigned turns to spend one or two nights inside the units.

Two-time Asian Games shot-put champion Tajinder Pal Singh Toor said there was some initial awkwardness but that he eventually found the accommodation comfortable.

Discus thrower Seema Kaliramna similarly said she had initially worried that the confined space could feel claustrophobic, but became comfortable after spending time inside.

‘Containers Are Like A Simulator’

SAI deputy director general Vineet Kumar described the exercise as a simulation of the accommodation athletes may encounter at the Games.

The preparation programme extends beyond accommodation. India's athletes and support staff will also attend orientation sessions focused on empathy, mutual respect and safeguarding.

The Indian contingent comprises 768 members, including 503 athletes and 246 support staff. A code of conduct setting out the dos and don'ts at the Games will be issued to the contingent and signed by everyone travelling to Aichi-Nagoya.

First Safeguarding Officer To Accompany Indian Contingent

For the first time, a Safeguarding Officer will travel with the Indian contingent, with particular attention to athletes who may feel neglected or distressed.

Safeguarding Officer Neetal Narang said athletes would be sensitised through multiple outreach programmes, including online sessions, on issues such as self-awareness, empathy and respect.

She said the aim was to ensure that athletes understood that being part of a team also meant looking out for others, rather than simply focusing on their own performance.

Confidential Hotline To Be Set Up

Narang said athletes would receive a pre-departure briefing explaining the safeguarding initiative, the role of the officer and how to seek assistance.

A dedicated hotline and email address will be provided, with complaints initially handled confidentially. Reported violations could be documented and, in repeated or serious cases, potentially lead to suspension of accreditation.

The appointment of a Safeguarding Officer is mandatory for contingents under Olympic Council of Asia rules.

Safeguarding is an International Olympic Committee initiative aimed at creating a safe sporting environment for athletes. Similar welfare measures were in place at the Winter Olympics earlier this year, where contingents could have up to five welfare officers.

Focus On A Safe Environment

Narang said the broader objective was to create an environment in which athletes could concentrate solely on competition without additional stress.

The combination of accommodation simulations, orientation sessions and safeguarding measures is intended to prepare the Indian contingent not only for the practical challenges of the Aichi-Nagoya Games but also for living and competing together as a large team.