Factual
Athens 2004 preparing for Olympics with MOC
GREECE: The Main Operations Centre (MOC) also known as the ‘headquarters’ of the Olympic Games began its operations yesterday. The aim is to prepare for the Olympic Games to be held next year at Nea Ionia in Athens.
An official release informs that this is the central and most decisive venue for the entire event as it constitutes the seat of the Games management, the executive team which has assumed the responsibility and the ‘high command’ of the Olympic Games.
This Centre is directly linked by video, audio and computer to all the sports venues where the events are scheduled to take place. At the Centre, the executive team including general managers responsible for the operational sectors involved in the organisation of the Games will be informed about crucial matters that appear in any venue or particular venue sector. The centre also controls each system and all activity; coordinates and directs, in each case, those responsible for the venues; and resolves issues requiring resolution at a higher level than the venue.
Referring to the creation of the MOC Athens 2004 COO Marton Simitsek underlined that “We aimed for and operated, the Main Operations Centre a year in advance, as opposed to previous events. Our aim is to test all systems and personnel under real Games conditions. We intend and are committed to organise perfect Games. The MOC is the ‘heart and mind’ of the Games. We ought to establish and secure their proper operation, to have completed the necessary check-up. And we are already doing that.”
The Main Operations Centre will be operational on a daily basis throughout this month so that the management of the Athens Organising Committee for the Olympic Games will acquire the necessary experience of the Olympic structure for issue resolution, and test all of the equipment under real conditions.
At the MOC an array of computers, six giant plasma screens, seven standard television screens, communication by Tetra, and so on, ensure constant contact with the venues of the Sport Events in real time, thus eliminating the time between information, decision and command, while also reducing the possibilities of error.
For the support of the Main Operations Centre, ATHENS 2004, in cooperation with all official Sponsors of high-tech systems (Schlumberger, Swatch, Xerox, Kodak, Panasonic) has planned and created the Technology Operations Centre (TOC), which will enable a two-way communication with all competition and non-competition venues on a 24-hour basis.
With an autonomous network of 212 computers, 60 telephone lines, 40 work stations, and a full, autonomous and uninterrupted power supply, the TOC secures continuous two-way communication with the systems and management of each venue. It is through the TOC that all operating systems, including the incident reporting system on the basis of which the MOC is updated, are constantly monitored and adjusted.
Factual
National Geographic launches ‘Postcards from Hong Kong’ with Ridhi Dogra
New series explores the city’s hidden gems and vibrant contrasts, premiering 28 March.
MUMBAI: Ridhi Dogra just sent a postcard from Hong Kong that’s worth framing because when a bustling metropolis reveals its quiet trails and timeless traditions, even the skyline takes a back seat. National Geographic has unveiled Postcards from Hong Kong, a refreshing travel series hosted and curated by actor Ridhi Dogra. Produced by National Geographic Creative Works in collaboration with the Hong Kong Tourism Board, the show offers an intimate, Indian traveller’s perspective on one of Asia’s most iconic cities, moving beyond its glittering harbour and skyscrapers to uncover serene beaches, scenic hiking trails and deep cultural traditions.
Across three visually rich episodes, Ridhi journeys through contrasting sides of Hong Kong. The first episode takes her on a quieter path of self-discovery to places like Sai Kung, Big Wave Bay, Dragon’s Back, Tai O, Ngong Ping, Po Lin Monastery and the Tian Tan Buddha. The second episode dives into the city’s energetic side, from the bustling streets of Causeway Bay to Happy Valley Racecourse, Michelin-starred spots and luxury shopping at Landmark.
Ridhi Dogra said, “Being part of Postcards from Hong Kong with Nat Geo was a deeply enriching experience. What I love about this journey is that it goes beyond the obvious; it’s not just about the skyline or the speed of the city but about the stories that live in its quieter corners.”
A National Geographic India spokesperson added, “With Postcards from Hong Kong, we set out to go beyond the familiar and explore the city through a more intimate, human lens.”
Hong Kong Tourism Board director of South Asia Puneet Kumar noted, “Postcards from Hong Kong is a reflection of meaningful storytelling that brings the city to life in an immersive way. It beautifully captures the diversity and spirit that define Hong Kong.”
Blending travel, culture and personal storytelling, the series celebrates Hong Kong as a city of contrasts where modern life meets tradition and every corner holds a story waiting to be discovered. It premieres on 28 March at 8 pm on the National Geographic Channel and will also stream on JioHotstar.
In a world of hurried travel reels, Postcards from Hong Kong slows things down just enough to let viewers truly see the city not just its lights, but its layers, proving that the best souvenirs are the stories you bring home.
