More Athens security glitches
2004-04-15 19:08
Athens - Greece admitted on Thursday that public transport security measures for the Athens Olympics were behind schedule, but pledged that everything will be in place in time for the Games.
"I ascertained that there have been significant delays in many implementation areas of the programme," Greek Transport Minister Michalis Liapis said.
"I gave clear instructions for the works to be speeded up, so that protection and security are at the highest level possible during the Games," he added.
Liapis spoke after a meeting with ministry officials on security measures for the August 13-29 Games. Airports, trains, public transport, telecommunications and postal services fall under the ministry's remit.
"We'll catch up to do everything in time," a ministry official told AFP.
The transport ministry's security measures include the installation of surveillance equipment as well as training of security personnel to guard installations, but also to crack down on pickpockets.
The transport projects include new tramlines and a railway linking the airport with the city centre. Tenders and court appeals have led to delays, officials said.
More than 50 000 members of the security forces and emergency services will be directly involved in protecting the athletes, officials and visitors.
The total cost for Greece will be more than €650 million - an Olympic record.
- AFP