The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has taken notice of reports indicating that the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru has been utilizing treated water for IPL matches amidst the city’s water scarcity issues. In response, the NGT has requested information on water usage from the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) and relevant authorities. This includes details on the volume and source of water being used at the stadium, with a deadline set for May 2 for submission of all relevant data.
The NGT’s intervention stems from concerns over the environmental impact of using treated water for non-essential purposes such as sporting events, especially in a city facing acute water shortages. The tribunal’s directive extends to the Bengaluru Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) and the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB), requiring transparency regarding water procurement and usage.
KSCA CEO Shubendu Ghosh has expressed confidence in the stadium’s compliance with NGT norms, indicating a willingness to proceed with scheduled matches. However, the NGT’s scrutiny underscores broader issues of water management and conservation in urban centers like Bengaluru.
The NGT’s action follows reports indicating that 75,000 liters of treated water were used during three IPL matches held at the stadium thus far. With four more matches scheduled, concerns persist over the sustainability of such practices, especially as the city grapples with escalating water scarcity.
Claims suggesting that the BWSSB provided treated water to the stadium upon request from the KSCA, drawing from nearby sources like Cubbon Park, have surfaced. However, KSCA officials deny using groundwater or potable water for maintenance activities like pitch upkeep.
The NGT’s intervention serves as a reminder of the need for responsible water usage and highlights the complexities of managing resources in the face of environmental challenges. It also underscores the importance of collaborative efforts between sports organizations, government bodies, and environmental regulators to address such concerns effectively.
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