The IPC is urging Games organisers to focus upon engaging the Brazilian public ©Rio 2016/Mathilde Molla

Rio 2016 organisers have been urged to fully engage with the Brazilian public following a latest Project Review inspection by the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) with barely six months until the Games are due to open.

It comes as concerns remain over Paralympic ticket sales following reports last month that 90 per cent remain unsold.

An IPC delegation focused on "every functional area" during a three day visit this week, their penultimate one before the Opening Ceremony is due on September 7.

They praised organisers afterwards but urged they concentrated more on promotional work to ensure tickets are sold. 

“We are happy with the progress made by the Organising Committee since our last meeting, especially in light of the measures they have taken to balance their budget," said IPC chief executive Xavier Gonzalez.

“With six months to go fast approaching, it is now time to focus on fully engaging the Rio and Brazilian public in the Paralympic Games.

"The Carioca need to understand the great value of this event, especially with two million tickets costing just BRL10 (£2/$3/€2.50)."

IPC chief executive Xavier Gonzalez claims to be happy with preparations following his latest inspection visit ©Getty Images
IPC chief executive Xavier Gonzalez claims to be happy with preparations following his latest inspection visit ©Getty Images

Brazil's worst recession for 25 years has contributed to budget cuts and seating being cut across venues to be used for both Games, including the Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas rowing and canoe sprint venue.

The onset of Zika virus has led to safety concerns, possibly dissuading some athletes and spectators attending both the Olympics and Paralympics.

To make matters worse, Rio de Janeiro Mayor Eduardo Paes has warned the crucial metro extension due to link the main Olympic and Paralympic hub at Barra de Tijuca with the rest of the city may not now be ready in time, exacerbating fears of congestion on roads.

The IPC have continued the strategy of cautious praise they have adopted throughout the last two years, insisting that the largest ever Paralympics will still be a huge success.

“The Paralympics in Rio will be the peoples’ Games, an event where the whole family can come together and enjoy great sport and a unique and unmissable experience," added Gonzalez.

"With the Brazilian team targeting a top five finish, this is the public’s opportunity to come together and celebrate everything that is good about sport, society and Brazil.”

Around 4,350 athletes from over 170 countries are set to compete in 22 sports.