(Image source: X.com)
[Saba Sports News] The quality of the air in Mumbai and Delhi gone from bad to worse, forcing the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to restrict fireworks at the Wankhede Stadium and the Arun Jaitley Stadium during the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023.
Delhi has been left with only one match to host, which is between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, while Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium is all set to host the India versus Sri Lanka clash on Thursday. Notably, the Wankhede Stadium will also host Australia and Afghanistan on 7th November and the first semi-final of the tournament on 15th November.
The Air Quality Index (AQI) reached 172, with a concerning peak of 260 at the Bandra Kurla Complex in Mumbai on 31st October. Meanwhile, in Delhi, the air quality in October reached its lowest level since 2020.
The ‘No Fireworks’ decision was made by the BCCI after official discussions with the International Cricket Council (ICC). The BCCI Secretary Jay Shah revealed that there will be no display of sparking fireworks in Mumbai and Delhi, and the decision was made after reviewing the state of the current air quality in the respective states and union territories.
“I took up the matter formally with the ICC and there won’t be any fireworks display in Mumbai and Delhi, which can add to the pollution level. The Board is committed to combating environmental issues and will always place the interest of our fans and stakeholders at the forefront,” Shah was quoted as saying by The Indian Express.
He further acknowledged the serious air quality issues in Mumbai and New Delhi. He stated that while BCCI aims to host the event in a manner that does justice to the spirit of cricket, the governing body is unwavering in its commitment to ensuring the health and safety of all those involved.
“The BCCI acknowledges the urgent concern surrounding air quality in both Mumbai and New Delhi. While we strive to host the ICC World Cup in a manner befitting the celebration of cricket, we remain steadfast in our commitment to prioritizing the health and safety of all our stakeholders,” Shah added.
The senior BCCI official stated that the ban on fireworks in Mumbai and Delhi is a public interest initiative aimed at raising environmental awareness and setting an example for societal change.
“This is more of a public interest statement that will increase the environmental awareness among citizens. This was a way of setting an example and bringing a significant societal change,” he further mentioned.