Indian athletes competing at the Asian Games in Japan have raised significant concerns about the living conditions and logistical arrangements provided for the event, according to reports from the team. The issues span three key areas — housing, food, and transportation — and have caused frustration among sportspeople who expected better standards given the stature of the multi-sport event.
At the accommodation centre, athletes reported that the housing facilities were below expectations. Complaints included inadequate room conditions, insufficient amenities, and a lack of proper recreation and recovery spaces that competitors rely on between training sessions and matches. Several athletes reportedly found the sleeping quarters cramped and unsuitable for proper rest, which is critical for peak performance.
Food arrangements emerged as another major pain point. Indian athletes, many of whom follow strict dietary plans designed by nutritionists, expressed difficulty in finding meals that met their requirements. Reports indicate that the food options available were limited, repetitive, and not always aligned with the nutritional needs of professional athletes training at the highest level. Some team members said they had to make special arrangements or bring their own supplements to ensure they could maintain their fitness regimes.
Transportation problems also surfaced, with athletes describing delays, unreliable schedules, and difficulty navigating between their accommodation, training venues, and competition arenas. For athletes on tight competition timelines, even minor transit disruptions can affect preparation and performance.
The Indian sports federation has been made aware of the grievances, and team officials are believed to be engaging with the host-country organising committee to seek improvements. However, with competition already underway or imminent, many athletes feel that the damage to their readiness has already been done.
This is not the first time that Indian athletes have faced logistical challenges at international multi-sport events hosted abroad. Past editions have seen similar complaints about housing quality, dietary provisions, and movement around host cities. Sports administrators have long argued that host nations need to invest more in infrastructure and services tailored specifically for competing athletes, rather than treating the athlete village as an afterthought.
Despite the setbacks, the Indian contingent remains determined to compete at its best. Coaches and support staff are working around the logistical difficulties to ensure athletes can focus on their events as much as possible under the circumstances.
