Rio officials insist they can fix problems in Olympic Village

Blocked toilets. Leaky pipes. Exposed electrical wiring.

Suffice it to say the athletes’ village at the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro had a rough opening over the weekend, with the contingent from Australia refusing to move in.

On Monday, the head of the Rio 2016 organizing committee insisted the accommodations will be fully ready for incoming teams within 48 hours.

“There are some adjustments that we are dealing with and that will be resolved in a short while,” Carlos Arthur Nuzman said.

“Every Olympic Village, because of their magnitude, needs some adjustments until it becomes perfect,” he continued. “The important thing is that everything will be resolved before the Games, without disturbing the athletes.”

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The village was built to house more than 17,000 athletes in 31 buildings. Members of 66 national teams arrived there on Sunday and some were satisfied with the accommodations.

In Building 23, the Australians noticed electrical shorting and a strong smell of gas in some apartments.

“The village is simply not safe or ready,” said Kitty Chiller, the team’s leader.

Chiller said she would reassess the situation this week.

With the Games set to begin on Aug. 5, American and British sports officials expressed confidence the Brazilians can make needed fixes.

“As is the case with every Games, we’re working with the local organizers to address minor issues and make sure the village is ready for Team USA athletes,” the U.S.Olympic Committee said in a statement on Rio 2016’s website.

david.wharton@latimes.com

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