Bengaluru: In the face of a severe water shortage in Bengaluru, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has issued a directive to the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) to halt the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) matches. This unprecedented move comes as the city struggles with a growing water crisis, prompting the NGT to demand a detailed report on water consumption during the cricket matches.
The NGT’s concerns were raised following reports that the M Chinnaswamy Stadium has been utilizing treated water for the IPL events. With three matches already completed, it was revealed that each game consumed approximately 75,000 liters of this valuable resource. The tribunal has taken a suo motu cognizance of the situation, leading to a case registered by NGT Chairperson Justice Prakash Srivastava and expert member Dr. A Senthil Vel.
In response to the NGT’s notice, KSCA CEO Subhendu Ghosh stated that the stadium adheres to the NGT’s regulations and expressed confidence in its ability to continue hosting the matches. He emphasized that neither drinking water nor groundwater is being used for maintaining the pitch or outfield, ensuring compliance with the state’s stringent water usage restrictions.
The NGT has also involved other state authorities in this matter, including the Bengaluru Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) and the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB), who are required to submit information on the source and quantity of water used by May 2. This action reflects the NGT’s commitment to safeguarding environmental resources and addressing the critical issue of water conservation in times of scarcity.
As the city awaits the tribunal’s decision, the KSCA’s assurance of compliance with environmental norms offers a glimmer of hope for cricket fans. However, the situation underscores the broader challenge of balancing the demands of popular sporting events with the pressing need for sustainable resource management.
