The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) cricket team’s home ground, the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, is facing fresh trouble. The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed authorities to investigate the stadium’s water usage during recent Indian Premier League (IPL) matches.
Water Scarcity raise concerns
This investigation comes amidst a severe water crisis gripping Bangalore. The city’s depleted groundwater tables and below-average rainfall have created a critical situation. Despite a city-wide ban on using treated water for non-essential purposes like car washing and gardening, the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) reportedly supplied treated water to the M Chinnaswamy Stadium during IPL matches.
NGT Takes Suo Moto Cognizance
The NGT took suo moto cognizance of news reports highlighting the stadium’s high water consumption. Reports estimate the daily water requirement at the stadium during matches to be around 75,000 liters. Concerned by this information, the NGT has directed the BWSSB to submit a detailed report disclosing the exact quantity and source of water used at the stadium. The tribunal has also emphasized the need for information on the quality of treated water supplied.
Double Standards? City Restrictions vs. Stadium Usage
The NGT order specifically points out the apparent contradiction between the city’s water restrictions and the stadium’s water usage. While Bengaluru residents face limitations on using treated water for basic activities, the M Chinnaswamy Stadium received a significant quantity for RCB’s IPL matches.
KSCA and KSPCB Implicated
The NGT has broadened the investigation by implicating the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA), the BWSSB chairman, the Deputy Commissioner of Bengaluru, and the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB). Both the KSCA and KSPCB will be required to submit reports in response to the NGT’s directive.
Groundwater use and Next Steps in RCB’s IPL 2024 match
The NGT order also raises concerns about potential groundwater usage at the stadium, for which no records seem to be available. The KSPCB has been granted three weeks to file a response to the NGT’s notice.
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Sustainable Solutions Needed
This investigation by the NGT underscores the urgent need for sustainable water management practices, particularly for large sporting venues. With Bengaluru facing a severe water crisis, finding ways to reduce water consumption at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium will be crucial. The outcome of the NGT’s investigation will likely determine if the stadium needs to implement stricter water conservation measures or face potential restrictions on its water usage in the future.
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