Terror no deterrent for tourists during Games: Selja

CHANDIGARH - Union Tourism Minister Kumari Selja Monday said security threats are unlikely to deter foreign or domestic tourists from visiting New Delhi during the Commonwealth Games in October.

Claiming that not just India but many other countries face terror threat, she said: “We are expecting both foreign and domestic tourists to come to New Delhi during the Games. We do not think any terror threat can deter them from arriving.”

“India is equipped to tackle any emergency situation. We will make world-class security arrangements during the Games and there is no need to worry,” she said.

“Preparations for the Games are in full swing. We are expecting to offer world-class facilities to players, officials and spectators coming here,” said Selja said.

The minister said the government is also providing formal training to service providers like taxi drivers and restaurant workers in New Delhi who are expected to come in direct contact with thousands of tourists.

“We are training our manpower to deal with the tourists efficiently. Taxi drivers, autorickshaw drivers, other service providers and workers of some restaurants and hotels are being given training in soft skills.

“We are teaching them some frequently used English words and how to express everything with courtesy, before others,” said Selja.