NAGOYA, Japan, Sept. 30 (Xinhua) -- Nagoya mayor Ichiro Hirosawa apologized to athletes on Wednesday for "inconveniences" at the Asian Games in the city after a series of complaints.
The Aichi-Nagoya Asiad has been plagued by problems, including a shortage of beds and transport failures. Organizers have faced accusations of poor management.
"We must offer our apologies to the athletes and others affected by these inconveniences," said Hirosawa, who also serves as Deputy President of the local organizing committee.
"We must sincerely reflect on the mishandling that occurred," he added. "There were human errors and a lack of communication with the national teams. We are responding based on what has happened."
Unlike previous Games, there is no athletes' village as organizers sought to cut costs; participants are housed in temporary wooden units, on a cruise ship and in hotels. Some teams complained that the cabins are inadequate, with beds reportedly too short.
Athletes have also faced transport problems: buses failing to run on schedule, not turning up or going to the wrong venues, and some competitors stranded for hours at Nagoya airport when they arrived on September 19.
The Organizing Committee (AINAGOC) earlier apologized on Saturday for problems involving accommodation and transportation during the Games. The committee pledged to strengthen operations for the remainder of the Games to improve services and event management.
The Games, held across Nagoya and Aichi prefecture, will conclude on Sunday. ■