Compared to the opening ceremony experience, it was a picture in contrast for the spectators at the closing ceremony of the Commonwealth Games at the JN Stadium on Thursday. The signages worked, the security was tight but had a humane touch, while the card readers at the entry points seemed to be working this time around.
The Mehar Chand Market entry point presented a much organised show by the police with the spectators being guided correctly and efficiently. A policeman was posted on an elevated stand to make announcement about the information direction the entry gates.
“This time around, things are well organised and even the spectators are much informed. They too are reaching at the right place. A number of advertisements were put in the media for the spectators. There is not much of a problem this time as was the case during the opening ceremony,” stated a senior police official.
The spectators, not wishing to take any chances, started trickling in from 2 pm onwards, which also prevented a swelling of the crowd and things remained manageable when time closing of entry neared. A large number of volunteers were seen enthusiastically guiding the spectators, apart from helping in traffic management.
With India having won several medals, there were many who could be seen sporting the tricolour on their cheeks. However, as per rules, they were not allowed to take any posters or flags inside. Though a number of spectators came to the stadium in their private vehicles, a large number of them used the park-and-ride facility, with the air-conditioned low-floor DTC buses giving them comfortable ride to the stadium.