Formula E works progressing at snail\'s pace

HYDERABAD: While ABB FIA Formula E race aims to promote electric racing and speed up the transition to a greener future, preparations for the inaugural event on February 11 on Hussain Sagar Lake seem slow. If the failed Indian Racing League experiment is anything to go by, the organisers have hardly learnt
any lessons.

Although tickets are already available online, the organisers accommodated
by the state government have not yet built four foot over bridges (FoBs) and
15 galleries.  The authorities are yet to figure out how to halt the stench
emanating from the lake when the event unfolds. India will host the historic
racing event through 2026 as per a four-year deal. Telangana government,
Formula E Association, and an energy company, which have entered into a
tripartite agreement to manage the Formula E race in the city.

According to the sources, there will be four entry points for the patrons
and 15 galleries will accommodate them, in different galleries and grand
stands with different price points and facilities. The organisers will have
to construct four FoBs with the support of the state government, including
one next to the Begumpet police station and another near the new Secretariat
building.

However, the construction works are moving slowly, notwithstanding
the fact that there are only 20 days until the major event. Organizers were
unavailable for comment (a persistent feature of the races since they began,
a total lack of communication) and the nodal agencies are also coy about the
progress of works.

They merely stated that the entire arrangements have to be taken up by the organisers themselves and the government is just supporting them. The authorities also maintained silence over providing parking areas for the event, in spite of the fact the issue caused a stir during the trial runs held in November and December.