Why Are Six Major Cricket Stadiums Under Scrutiny by the National Green Tribunal?

The National Green Tribunal has raised concerns about water usage at six major cricket stadiums, including Barabati Stadium in Cuttack. The tribunal is demanding explanations for the lack of disclosure regarding the water sources used for maintaining the pitches and grounds. This inquiry follows a plea advocating for the use of treated sewage water instead of groundwater. The NGT's actions highlight the need for sustainable practices in sports facilities across the country.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 24, 2026, 09:56 IST

NGT's Notice to Cricket Stadiums

New Delhi: The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has sent notices to six prominent cricket stadiums in India, including Barabati Stadium located in Cuttack. The tribunal is demanding explanations regarding the lack of transparency about the water sources used for maintaining the pitches and grounds. This inquiry follows a request for information directed at various stadiums to be submitted to the Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA), which is currently compiling the data provided.

The stadiums under scrutiny include Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi, Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur, Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur, Dr DY Patil Stadium in Mumbai, Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow, and Barabati Stadium in Cuttack. Previously, the NGT addressed concerns regarding the reliance on groundwater or freshwater for cricket ground maintenance, advocating for the use of treated sewage water instead. Additionally, the tribunal raised issues about the absence of rainwater harvesting systems for groundwater management.