Indian Athletes Receive Portable ACs to Combat Paris Heat
Indian athletes competing at the Paris Olympic Games have been provided with 40 portable air conditioners by the country’s sports ministry to alleviate the discomfort caused by soaring temperatures and inadequate cooling in their rooms at the Olympic Village.
The decision to provide the ACs was made after discussions with the Indian Olympic Association and the French Embassy in India. The ministry recognized the challenges faced by athletes due to the extreme heat and humidity in Paris, which have been exacerbated by the organizers’ decision to minimize air conditioning to reduce the event’s carbon footprint.
Temperatures in Paris and Chateauroux, the two main Olympic venues, have reached uncomfortable levels, with reports indicating that they have exceeded 40 degrees Celsius on some days. During the men’s 50m rifle 3-positions event, all eight finalists, including India’s bronze medalist Swapnil Kusale, were visibly sweating profusely at the Chateauroux shooting range.
Prior to the Games, several contingents expressed concerns about the weather conditions in Paris, prompting the USA contingent to bring their own portable air conditioners. Other countries have reportedly followed suit, and India has now joined the bandwagon.
The portable ACs provided by the Indian sports ministry are plug-and-play units that have been distributed to athletes in their rooms at the Olympic Village. The ministry expects that the ACs will provide a more comfortable living environment and facilitate better rest, which is crucial for optimal performance.
The decision to provide the ACs was made on Friday, and the cost is being borne by the ministry. The move has been welcomed by athletes, who have expressed their gratitude for the support and the improved living conditions.
