Delhi goes all out: anti-pigeon gel, sound machines for badminton worlds

New Delhi is pulling out all the stops—literally. With the BWF World Championships just weeks away, organisers have deployed anti-pigeon gel, sound machines, and a host of other measures to ensure the event goes off without a hitch. The goal: no bird droppings, no stray animals, and no distractions for the world's best shuttlers.

The push comes after sharp criticism during the India Open earlier this year, when players complained about court conditions and interruptions. The Badminton Association of India (BAI) has since promised a 'completely transformed' venue, and the Badminton World Federation (BWF) has expressed satisfaction with the upgrades.

From pigeons to perfection

One of the most unusual additions is an anti-pigeon gel applied to ledges and beams around the indoor stadium. The gel creates a sticky, uncomfortable surface that discourages birds from landing—without harming them. Officials say this will keep the playing area clean and free from droppings that could pose a slip hazard or disrupt play.

Alongside the gel, sound machines have been installed to emit frequencies that repel birds and stray animals. These devices are part of a broader effort to make the venue feel professional and controlled, a stark contrast to the chaos that marred the India Open.

Learning from the backlash

The India Open controversy was a wake-up call. Players had taken to social media to highlight issues ranging from poor lighting to unexpected interruptions, forcing the BAI to rethink its approach. The World Championships, being a far bigger stage, demanded a more rigorous response.

Officials have since conducted multiple inspections with BWF representatives, addressing every flagged concern. The venue has undergone a thorough cleanup, with new signage, improved seating, and better crowd management protocols. The BAI has called it the 'best-ever' World Championships preparation in the country's history.

What players and fans can expect

For players, the focus is on a distraction-free environment. The court surfaces have been re-laid, and the air conditioning has been calibrated to maintain consistent shuttle flight. For fans, organisers promise a memorable experience, with enhanced entry systems and clearer viewing lines.

Delhi, which has often struggled to host international sporting events smoothly, is treating this as a redemption story. The city has invested heavily in logistics, from transport to hospitality, to ensure that visiting delegations leave with a positive impression.

Stray animal management

Beyond pigeons, the venue's perimeter will be monitored for stray dogs and cats. Animal control teams will be on standby, and barriers have been set up to prevent any incursions during matches. This follows complaints from past events where stray animals wandered into stadium premises, causing delays.

BWF's stamp of approval

The BWF has formally acknowledged the improvements, with officials stating that the venue now meets international standards. This endorsement is crucial, as it signals to players that the event will be taken seriously—both on and off the court.

Organisers remain tight-lipped about the exact cost of these measures, but sources suggest it runs into several lakh rupees. For a city that has often been criticised for its infrastructure, the spending reflects a determination to get things right this time.

As the championships approach, all eyes will be on Delhi to see if the preparations hold up under pressure. The BAI has set a high bar, and officials know that a smooth event could pave the way for more international tournaments in the future.

The next few weeks will be critical, with final inspections and test events scheduled. If the gel and sound machines do their job, Delhi might just turn a new page in its sporting history.