Every person in Maharashtra has sympathy towards the people living in drought affected areas of Maharashtra. But, targeting the IPL matches played in Maharashtra and holding them responsible for use of water and subsequent Mumbai High Court decision to shift IPL matches outside Maharashtra has invited sharp criticism from many Indian cricketers and sportspersons.
Dilip Vengsarkar
They all have been sympathetic about the grave situation of drought in some parts of Maharashtra, but they are not satisfied with the decision of shifting 13 matches to be played after 30th April out of Maharashtra. Former India Cricket Captain has argued very logically. While expressing his views to a Marathi daily ‘Loksatta’ he said, “ The Cricket ground is spread around 3 to 4 acres land. So, how much of water will be required for the grass? MCA had already agreed to use recycled waste water for this purpose. There are many private clubs having huge Golf grounds spread over 100 acres. There are many hotels maintaining swimming pools. Many under construction high rise buildings are getting plenty of water. But no one is paying attention to it. Above all , there are so many sugar factories owned by Politicians, which require huge quantity of water. Why no one can notice this huge consumption of water.”
There is a reason to take into account the argument made by Dilip Vengsarkar. By the way, how many people know that to manufacture one bottle of Beer, 5 bottles of water is required. Will these companies be stopped manufacture of Beer, till the drought exists? This is the question asked by many IPL lovers. This issue has also been raised by a TV news channel now.