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Rio State governor admits Olympics could be "big failure" amid crisis

Xinhua, June 28, 2016 Adjust font size:

Rio de Janeiro's interim governor Francisco Dornelles admitted Monday that the Olympic Games could be a "big failure" if there are no appropriate measures taken in regards to security and transport during the Games.

Dornelles declared an unprecedented "state of public calamity in financial administration" earlier this month with less than 50 days until the opening ceremony, which could threaten "the fulfillment of the obligations as a result of the Olympic and Paralympic Games Rio 2016".

Brazil federal government has already reportedly agreed to disburse federal funds to cover Rio's shortfall, prioritizing any projects considered necessary for the Games. However according to Dornelles, the funds have not yet reached the state.

Dornelles also warned that due to lack of money, the police patrols may came to a halt by the end of the week.

"I am optimistic about the Games, but we have to show the reality," he said in an interview with Brazilian media Globo. "We can make a great Olympics, but if some steps are not taken, it can be a big failure."

"We have to give proof that we are equipping security and the mobility for people to come to the country."

Dornelles' remarks are in sharp contrast with other higher-level Brazilian officials who always repeat that the Games would be unaffected by the various political and economic problems ravaging the host nation.

His other worry is the subway line that was used to transport tourists to the main Olympic venue in the far-western Rio area of Barra da Tijuca. Promised for late last year, the subway is still not ready. A nearly 1 billion real (290 million US dollars) federal loan aimed at finishing the project has also not yet been released.

"I have said that without security and no subway, there will be difficulties. How will people get to places without underground transport? How will people feel protected in the city without security?" Dornelles added. Endit