BCCI Cancels Fireworks For Mumbai And Delhi Matches Owing To Pollution; Know The Exact Status

Amid escalating air pollution concerns in Delhi and Mumbai, the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 matches in these Indian cities will no longer feature fireworks, as announced by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

The BCCI cited the significant deterioration in air quality as the reason for prohibiting fireworks during the remaining World Cup 2023 games in Mumbai and Delhi. The decision reflects the board's sensitivity to environmental issues and its commitment to prioritize the health and safety of fans and stakeholders.

BCCI Secretary Jay Shah conveyed the decision in a statement, stating that discussions with the International Cricket Council (ICC) led to the agreement not to have fireworks displays in these cities, given the potential impact on pollution levels.

Shah stated, "I took up the matter formally with the ICC [International Cricket Council] 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," as quoted by various media reports.

The BCCI secretary further stated, "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 prioritising the health and safety of all our stakeholders."

The move follows concerns raised by England's star batter, Joe Root, who described the challenging conditions faced by players during their World Cup match against South Africa in Mumbai. The air quality made it difficult for players to breathe, creating a unique and uncomfortable playing atmosphere.

Root expressed his concerns in a press conference stating, "I've not played in anything like that before. I've obviously played in hotter conditions, and probably more humid conditions. But it just felt like you couldn't get your breath. It was like you were eating the air. It was unique"

"I mean you couldn't get away from it. You walk out onto the field and your shirt's soaking wet, and you have a lot heavier breath than you would do, and you know you've done your fitness and stuff, it's not like you're short on that. So you are very aware of it", he stated further.

Upcoming matches include India taking on Sri Lanka at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium on 2nd November, followed by another league game on 7th November and the semi-final on 15th November. Delhi is also hosting its final 2023 World Cup match at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, with Sri Lanka facing Bangladesh on 6th November.

The BCCI's decision to forgo fireworks during these matches is based on a broader consideration of "public interest" and aims to enhance environmental awareness among citizens. This step is intended to set an example and drive meaningful societal change concerning air quality and pollution concerns.

DELHI'S AIR QUALITY AS OF NOW...

The air quality in Delhi has continued to deteriorate, remaining in the 'very poor' category for the fifth consecutive day. The overall air quality index (AQI) recorded by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) stood at 373 on Wednesday, 1st November.

Delhi and its suburbs were shrouded in haze, with the city's 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching 350, marking the highest level for the season. The AQI was recorded at 347 on Monday, 30th October and 325 on Sunday, 29th October, indicating a concerning trend in air quality in the national capital and its surroundings. These deteriorating air quality levels has raised concerns about the impact on public health and the environment.

AND MUMBAI'S AIR QUALITY...

The Bombay High Court has proactively recognized the declining air quality in the city and, in a suo moto action on Tuesday, 31st October, has issued directives to the Centre, the state, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board, and the Central Pollution Control Board. They have been instructed to submit their responses by 6th November, indicating the urgency and seriousness with which the court is addressing the air quality issue.

The petitioners have expressed deep concern about the deteriorating air quality index and have approached the High Court seeking directions for the BMC to initiate an urgent tree plantation drive. The plea also requests an investigation into the operations of BMC's garden department and punitive measures against individuals found involved in any misconduct.

As of Wednesday, 1st November, air quality index for areas in Mumbai is in 'poor' category with the situation only escalating to more dangerous levels.

There are six AQI categories, namely Good, Satisfactory, Moderately polluted, Poor, Very Poor, and Severe.

Here are the precautions to be taken with them as per PIB: