New Delhi. India will face Sri Lanka in the World Cup 2023 on Thursday at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium, but the spectators present in the stadium will not be able to enjoy the fireworks during and after this match. Not only in Mumbai, the same thing will happen in the match to be held in Delhi also. Due to the poor air quality index of both the cities, the Board of Control for Cricket in India i.e. BCCI has taken this decision. The next match of the World Cup in Delhi is between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka on 6 November. There will be no fireworks in this match also.
Let us tell you that the Bombay High Court has taken suo motu cognizance and initiated proceedings on the deteriorating air quality of Mumbai, only after this the BCCI has taken this decision. BCCI Secretary Jay Shah, while replying to a question from Indian Express, said, “I have formally raised this matter with the ICC. There will be no fireworks in the matches to be held in Mumbai and Delhi as it may increase the pollution level. BCCI is committed to tackling environmental issues and we will always keep the interests of fans and other stakeholders at the forefront.
He further said, “BCCI is concerned about the situation arising regarding air quality in both Mumbai and New Delhi. While we are trying to host the World Cup as a celebration of cricket, we also understand our responsibility to prioritize the health and safety of our stakeholders.
According to Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data, the overall AQI in Mumbai on Tuesday was 172 while it reached the dangerous level of 260 in Bandra Kurla Complex. In Delhi, the air quality this October has been the worst since 2020.
The report quoted a BCCI official as saying that by banning fireworks in the World Cup matches to be held in Mumbai and Delhi, BCCI is giving a strong message. This officer said that this is a message in public interest and it will increase awareness among people about the environment. This is an important step to set an example and bring a big change in the society.