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This is an archive article published on October 25, 2012

All set for weekend car-nival

The paintjob is done,the gleaming track is ready,the surrounding greens are being manicured,the grid girls have already given a sneak peek and,most importantly,the supercars and their superstar drivers have checked in.

The paintjob is done,the gleaming track is ready,the surrounding greens are being manicured,the grid girls have already given a sneak peek and,most importantly,the supercars and their superstar drivers have checked in. The grand stand awaits its pantheon of Formula One fans.

As the final countdown began the second edition of the Indian Grand Prix at Buddh International Circuit in Greater Noida,the organisers raced against time on Wednesday to put everything in place for Friday rehearsal,Saturday’s pole position event and,of course,Sunday’s race day.

Learning from the experience of last year’s debut,officials of Jaypee,which holds the contract for the circuit and the Noida-Greater Noida and Yamuna expressways — the roads leading to the venue — said they were trying to fix every problem that racegoers might face.

Last year,people grumbled about lack of signages on the way to the circuit. This has been amply taken care of this time around.

“Though the event was a massive success last year,there were some grey areas. For instance,construction of the Yamuna Expressway was on and,hence,beautification of the area along the road couldn’t be done. This has been taken care of this year. Race spectators will get a fantastic view. A lot of fans will come from abroad. We are making sure that the Grand Prix experience is world class,” a senior Jaypee official said.

Another embarrassing problem was traffic snarls. “Only those with tickets will be allowed near and in the circuit. A bus service with more vehicles than last year will run from designated parking spots at Jaypee Sports City,” the official said.

Police said at least 200 personnel would be deployed to oversee security,besides Jaypee’s private guards. “The traffic police will be there in full strength. Traffic advisories will be issued. Those wishing to go to Pari Chowk should avoid the expressway. Instead,they will have to go through Noida from Bhangel,” an officer said.

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A Jaypee official said “strict action” has been initiated against fraudulent websites and forums,which have been selling tickets at discounted rates. He said bookmyshow.com will be the only authorised vendor.

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