CWG 2010 preparations behind schedule

The Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) is worried that a number of new venues for next year's multi-sports gathering in the Indian capital are falling behind schedule.

"We are concerned that some of the construction deadlines will not be met," CGF president Michael Funnel told CNN-IBN news channel on Friday following a meeting of the Games' coordination committee.

"But there is still time and if the new deadlines are met, that's fine," he added.

Delays in construction have led to the cancellation of several international events that also serve as trail runs for venues being used at the October 2010 Games.

The Commonwealth shooting and boxing championships were postponed, while the world badminton championships were moved to the southern Indian city of Hyderabad.

Organising chairman Suresh Kalmadi assured the committee that all venues, expect the velodrome and rugby sevens arena, would be completed by December.

"Many deadlines have been met and efforts are in hand to further enhance the efficiency in meeting laid down deadlines," Kalmadi said in a statement.