India v New Zealand: Pollution cloud hangs over Delhi T20I

As the years passed, pollution has turned out to be a burning issue for the capital of India- New Delhi. From Arvind Kejriwal’s odd-even policy to banning firecrackers during Diwali, the government has tried out everything to curb the pollution level. Despite the initiatives, Delhi hasn’t quite been able to get itself out of the stranglehold of pollution. Hosting sporting events in the national capital has turned out to be a risky business, courtesy to the pollution level.

Among sporting events, the latest one to be hosted by New Delhi is the 1st T20 International between India and New Zealand to be played at the Feroz Shah Kotla on the 1st of November. Recently, a ban has been imposed on using diesel generators. It also means that the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) cannot use the diesel-powered generators during the India-New Zealand game.

In an exclusive interview with Hindustan Times, one of the officials of DDCA expressed his concerns over arranging an alternative source of power-supply.

“We were informed on Thursday by Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority (EPCA). It is quite an issue at this hour but the meeting is on. We can only request the BSES to double our load. For uninterrupted supply of power, for both lighting and broadcasters, we will need around 3000-3500 KVA. We were told generator sets were banned in marriages or smaller functions, but a recent PIL in the Supreme Court made the earlier verdict stricter,” the source quoted.

“We have discussed this matter with the DISCOMS and Delhi Power Secretary and they have assured us there is no power shortage in the city and the DISCOMS will grant temporary connection to anyone who requires power, within 24 hours of receipt of request” the official added.

A spoilsport?

The decider of the ODI series between India and the Kiwis will be played in Kanpur. Thereafter, the teams will move to Delhi for the T20I series. The DDCA has four days or so to sort things out. However, it will be a shame if pollution turns out to be a hindrance to the game.