Delhi not only the city of ‘Laddu’ but also of dust!

From Delhi(India): After embarking from Indigo airliner at Delhi Indira Gandhi International airport I just memorized the warning of my colleague Shahjahan Molla who advised me to keep mask for protection from dust. He had experienced such dusty Delhi when few days back he accompanied Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in her Delhi visit.

When travelling in taxi on Paharganj, the driver cautioned us to use mask because at this time of the year the city of Delhi is full of dust mixed with ash.

Really the Delhi air pollution is a threat for the people. However from some time back there is much deliberation that why the Bangladesh- India match has been arranged here at newly named Arun Jetly stadium.

One can surprise that in vast India was any dearth of International cricket playing ground? Many cricket lovers could not be satisfied with BCCI decision.

In the annals of bilateral cricket history Bangladesh for the first time has come to India, so it must be made grandeur. However, if the danger of dust can be avoided soon Bangaldesh team would return to Gangetic Delta region where the city of Kolkata is located. Earlier in the Feroz Shah Kotla ground the Srilankan cricketers had to use mask while playing International match. If necessary the Bangladesh players will do that. The Tiger management body is also pondering over the air pollution issue. 

The Tigers did their practice with mask. Even head coach Russel Domingoe had to say that, ‘In this condition it is difficult to play. None will want to play. Eye burning and there is also problem in the throat’.

There is no alternative other than to using masks either you practice or play match. Probably after Dewali festival the pollution has intensified. Air quality index informed that the pollution rate is 301-400. The physical problems are increasing along with respiratory difficulties.

The environment of Arun Jetly stadium is similar where the dust is flying with air. The air is so thick that on November 3 both the teams will be sure facing visibility hazards.

The daily news papers of Delhi also echoed the same concern. The daily Express covered on such story where the Bangladesh boys were practicing with masks.

Sourav Ganguly also heard the criticisms. BCCI president said that it is too late. Nothing can be done now. 

However, Delhi cricket association loudly said that this dust will have impact on the ensuing T20I match between India and Bangladesh. The Delhi fans are eagerly waiting for the match where the gallery will remain full to the beam.

Air pollution has made the historical city scapegoat. But still Delhi is the city of Red Fort, capital of the great Mughals. There is India gate, Kutub Minar, Jame Mosque, Parliament building and so one many things to see and understand.

Again that ‘Delhi ka Laddu’ which is deceiving in both way by eating or not eating!