Brazil is going through the birth pangs of the Olympics. It is the second major event for the South American nation, which is grappling with issues at every conceivable front, after the successful hosting of the World Cup football two years ago.

Every citizen knows that the country is throwing up a huge party for the world, and that they have to pay for it. They are up early in the morning and working hard to have a better profile.

In pleasant weather, the buses ply at rapid pace, even as the Olympic lane ensures super service for the visitors, assembled from 206 countries.

The Olympics is also meant to improve the profile of Brazil in the eyes of the world.

With the finishing touches still being given, the organisers are virtually gritting their teeth and going through the service, the best they can, within the constraints, mostly of resources among others.

The small things are not taken care that meticulously, even though it does not cost any money. The accreditation validation takes quite a lot of time. The international and domestic airports are treated differently, even though the athletes, officials and media are arriving both ways.

The buzz of the Olympics is more on the walls than in the voice of the people. Of course, they are warm to a great extent, but there is a marked indifference in many about the extravaganza.

Things move at a slow pace. The transport is a big chaos. There are no buses to go to many competition venues, and thus the media has a big handicap. Of course, when they run, the buses do so for one person or even none, on time. The frequency may not be very encouraging, but is expected to gain pace as the Games open on August 5.

Security looks thin, but efficient.

There is no clarity on various fronts, but things get done miraculously. The hills are shining with lights, trying to dispel any gloom, both physically and figuratively. The setting looks splendid, only the execution needs to gather momentum.

More than making any attempt to soak in the spirit of the Olympics, people are keen to follow the rule.

There is a certain dampness overall, not necessarily because of the frequent drizzle.

Some of the volunteers, who manage to speak English, not many of their kind though, manage to light up their faces with a bright smile as they go about their task in a helpful manner, appreciating the need for proper hospitality, at least in terms of the warmth of behaviour. Efficiency is rubbing shoulders with lazy reluctance, but as the Games near the start, there is a promise of a bright tomorrow.