Hybrid shuttles, bird nets as BWF World Cup clogs India Open breakdowns | Badminton news

(L-R) Pabitra Margherita, Minister of State for External Affairs of India; Sanjay Mishra, General Secretary BAI; Himanta Biswa Sarma, President, BAI and CM of Assam; Mansukh Mandaviya, Minister for Youth and Sports; Pullela Gopichand, Chief National Trainer, BAI; and Hari Ranjan Rao, Secretary, MYAS & DG, SAI along with the official mascot of BWF World Cup 2026 Peack. (Photo: BAI)

NEW DELHI: There are 30 days left for the BWF World Championship For starters, organizers on Saturday promised a trouble-free tournament after last year’s India Open was marred by pigeon droppings, monkey incursions, dust and facility issues. TOI has learned that cost-effective hybrid shuttles will also be used, amid a spike in feathered shuttle prices.Badminton Association of India (BAI) general secretary Sanjay Mishra said the flaws uncovered during the India Open have been comprehensively addressed ahead of the August 17-23 event, which is expected to cost the federation between Rs 15-20 crore to host.“The issues that arose during the India Open have been rectified and I am confident that this will be one of the best World Championships in every aspect,” Mishra said. Calling the India Open a “test event”, he thanked the sports ministry and the Sports Authority of India (SAI) for sweeping improvements.To eliminate the threat of pigeons, a strong polyethylene bird netting will be installed under the roof structure to prevent nesting of birds while allowing normal lighting and ventilation. “Existing nests have also been removed,” Mishra said. Regarding the monkey incursion, he said the previously open overhead door had been sealed, a triple-door system had been set up and a 24-hour security guard had been deployed. To tackle the stray dogs, BAI has coordinated with the Delhi government and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) to shift the dogs to shelters, while dog catch teams will remain on duty to ensure a dog-free place.The stadium has also undergone renovations, including a new drop ceiling, improved toilets, drainage improvements to prevent water pooling during monsoons and powerful glare-free LED lighting for an enhanced player and spectator experience.Minister of Sports Mansukh Mandaviyawhile unveiling the official mascot ‘Peacko’ and the championship anthem, he said, “India is moving towards becoming a sporting nation,” adding that the event will mark another milestone in the country’s sporting ambitions. BAI President and Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma called the return of the tournament after 17 years a “significant moment” that will leave a lasting legacy for Indian badminton.