The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, the largest franchise cricket league globally, is just around the corner. As the seventeenth edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL), the world’s largest franchise cricket league, approaches, Bengaluru, the capital city of Karnataka and the home to Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) is struggling with a significant water scarcity issue.
There are concerns and speculations regarding how the water shortage might pose challenges for ground maintenance and hosting matches at the renowned M Chinnaswamy Stadium in the city. It’s worth noting that this iconic venue is owned and overseen by the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) and is set to host the home games of the star-studded franchise. The water shortage has sparked worries regarding the readiness of pitches for IPL matches, considering the substantial water requirements.
As RCB is set to have their initial home game against Punjab Kings on March 25, the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) is confronted with the challenging responsibility of securing sufficient water supply for the matches, all while managing the broader water needs of the city.
For all those concerned about IPL matches at M Chinnaswamy stadium deepening our #WaterCrisis , non-portable water for watering the grounds, plants, sanitary is from the STP unit at KSCA, so don’t think the matches will contribute to the crisis #BengaluruWaterCrisis
— Manuja (@manujaveerappa) March 10, 2024
Bengaluru’s water shortage affecting IPL fixtures
The prolonged water crisis in the city is a result of inadequate rainfall, causing a substantial surge in the demand for water tankers throughout Bengaluru. Reports suggest that the rates for water tankers have doubled, reaching up to INR 1,800 per refill, whereas the usual range is below INR 800.
Despite reassurances from the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) about having sufficient supply for the next five months, residents are experiencing panic due to the situation.
Similarly, the state association might soon organize a brainstorming session to explore potential effects and resolutions for the city’s water conditions. It’s crucial to highlight that the likelihood of a water crisis affecting operations appears minimal, given that the association utilizes non-potable water for ground and pitch maintenance.
The second part of the IPL 2024 schedule is also clouded with uncertainty due to the Election Commission of India (ECI) announcing dates for the Lok Sabha General Elections, adding another layer of complexity to the situation.
Get the latest cricket news here, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter and Instagram for more such updates.
