IPL 2024: Chinnaswamy likely to remain unaffected by Bengaluru water crisis

The upcoming seventeenth installment of the globally-renowned Indian Premier League is nearing its commencement in a few days' time. Bengaluru, the capital of Karnataka and the home of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), is currently confronting an acute water scarcity issue.

Meanwhile, there have been speculations over the water shortage proving to be an obstacle for ground maintenance and hosting games at the city's M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. Notably, the iconic venue is owned and managed by the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) and will host the home games played by the star-studded franchise.

The water crisis has raised apprehensions about the preparation of pitches for IPL matches, as it requires a significant amount of water. With RCB scheduled to play their first home game against Punjab Kings on March 25, KSCA faces the daunting task of ensuring an adequate water supply for the matches, considering the broader water needs of the city.

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Water shortage in Bengaluru and its impact on IPL fixtures

The city's water crisis has been growing for some time now due to poor rainfall, leading to a significant increase in the demand for water tankers across Bengaluru. Some reports indicate that the charges for a water tanker have doubled, and are now charging up to INR 1,800 per refill, which usually ranges under INR 800.

Despite assurances from the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) that there is enough supply to meet the demand for the next five months, there has been widespread panic amongst residents.

The state association, in the same vein, may soon call for a brainstorming gathering to find possible impacts and solutions regarding the water conditions in the city. However, it is also important to note that the possibilities of the water crisis causing an impact seems unlikely, as the association uses non-potable water for ground and pitch maintenance. Hence, hosting IPL fixtures at the venue might entail minimal to zero inconvenience.

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The scheduling of the second-half of the IPL is clouded with uncertainty too, as the announcement of dates for the Lok Sabha General Elections by the Election Commission of India (ECI) further complicates the scenario.