IOC concerned over progress of work in Rio

Rio de Janeiro, June 7 (IANS) The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has expressed concern over Rio's ability to build necessary infrastructure for the 2016 Olympics in time.

The urban infrastructure projects are already underway, as many will be used in the 2014 FIFA World Cup as well. However, the construction of facilities built specifically for the Olympics, such as the Olympic Park, need to start soon, IOC coordinator Nawal el Moutawakel said.

"The time left to deliver the facilities is getting short, and the amount of work to be done is significant," she said.

"There are a number of Olympic facilities which need to be ready in time for test events."

The IOC also highlighted the importance of increasing the capacity of Rio's hotel network. The limited number of available hotel beds was brought to light recently as the city got ready to host the UN Conference on Sustainable Development. Due to the shortfall in the availability of rooms, prices sky-rocketed, prompting delegations to complain and even cancel their attendance at the summit.