The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has decided against the display of fireworks in the remaining World Cup 2023 matches, slated to be held in Delhi and Mumbai.
The decision has been taken in the wake of the worsening air pollution in the two metropolitan cities.
"BCCI is sensitive to environmental concerns. I took up the matter formally with the ICC and there won't be any fireworks display in Mumbai, 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," BCCI secretary Jay Shah was quoted as saying by ANI.
This development comes after Bomabay High Court took suo motu cognisance of the deteriorating air quality in Mumbai for the last few weeks.
"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," Jay Shah told The Indian Express.
"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," he further said.
There are three more World Cup matches scheduled to take place in Mumbai. India will face Sri Lanka on November 2 while Australia will take on Afghanistan on November 7. The first semi-final of the showpiece tournament will also be held at the Wankhede Stadium on November 15.
On the other hand, Delhi's Arun Jaitely Stadium will stage the Bangladesh versus Sri Lanka match on November 6.