As IPL matches draw crowds to stadiums across India, the spotlight shifts to the challenges faced by residents and attendees due to inadequate sanitation facilities. From long queues to public urination, the lack of proper infrastructure poses significant concerns for public health and community well-being.
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As excitement mounts for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) matches at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati, a cloud of concern looms over the availability of adequate urinals for both the public and security personnel.
The Assam Cricket Association (ACA) gears up for the grand event, but the lack of proper facilities threatens to mar the cricketing frenzy. Particularly for residents near the stadium, who often endure the stench of urine and garbage post-matches.
Residents, bystanders, and vendors in the Barsapara locality are deeply frustrated and concerned over the ongoing issue of inadequate urination facilities, especially with the impending influx of spectators expected to attend the IPL matches at the stadium.
The existing problem is exacerbated as the matches draw nearer, amplifying the challenges faced by the community.
Bystanders and vendors in the area share similar sentiments, expressing frustration over the inadequate facilities. They witness firsthand the difficulties faced by spectators and security personnel who attend events at the stadium.
During past matches and events, they have observed long queues forming at the limited urinal facilities available, leading to delays and inconvenience for attendees.
"We're thrilled about the IPL, but the lack of urinals creates a nuisance," says Ritul, a local vendor. "People often resort to urinating in public, affecting sanitation and tarnishing the image of our neighborhood."
Pronoti, another resident, shares her disappointment, "It's embarrassing to see tourists and visitors facing such difficulties. We need more public toilets in the area to address this issue."
Guwahati Mayor, Mrigen Sarania, acknowledges the challenge, citing the unavailability of land as a major hindrance to constructing public toilets. "We had plans to address this issue, but without suitable land, it's difficult to proceed," he explains.
In response to raised concerns, the Public Health Engineering Department (PHED) has been tasked with constructing temporary urinal provisions for the public during the IPL matches. However, residents remain skeptical about the effectiveness of these temporary measures.
"We appreciate the efforts to provide temporary urinals, but they're not a long-term solution," remarks a bystander. "We need permanent facilities to ensure sanitation and dignity for everyone visiting the area."
Devajit Saikia, BCCI Joint Secretary and Member Secretary of ACA, reassures the public that providing adequate urinal facilities is a top priority for the association. "We understand the importance of basic amenities for both spectators and staff," he states. "For every IPL match, we ensure the availability of temporary urinals to cater to the needs of the public and security personnel."
As the IPL matches draw crowds to the stadium, another issue surfaces – the aftermath of the matches. With excitement and enthusiasm running high, the streets surrounding the stadium bear witness to a surge in garbage and chaos, dampening the spirits of residents and authorities alike.
Post-match scenes depict a sorry sight, with plastic bottles, wrappers, flags, and spit stains littering the roads. Despite efforts to maintain cleanliness, the sheer volume of spectators overwhelms waste management systems, resulting in a scene reminiscent of a garbage dump rather than a vibrant sporting event.
"The amount of garbage left behind after the matches is appalling," laments Drithi, a local resident. "It's disheartening to see our streets strewn with litter, especially considering the efforts made to beautify the city."
The chaos and commotion caused by the audience flow intensify the situation, as vehicles jostle for parking space and pedestrians navigate through the crowd. Traffic snarls and congestion become commonplace, adding to the frustration of residents trying to go about their daily routines.
"The traffic situation becomes unbearable during match days," complains Arun, a shop owner near the stadium. "Finding parking space is nearly impossible, and constant honking and congestion make it difficult to conduct business."
Adding to the woes is the issue of public intoxication, with some sections of the crowd indulging in pre-match revelry that spills onto the streets. Locals report instances of alcohol being consumed openly, raising concerns about public safety and decorum.
"The sight of people drinking and creating a ruckus before the matches is disturbing," says Deepak, a concerned citizen. "It not only tarnishes the image of our neighborhood but also poses a risk to public order."
Authorities grapple with managing the post-match fallout, deploying cleanup crews to restore order to the streets. However, the scale of the task presents a formidable challenge, requiring extra efforts from concerned agencies.
"We are aware of the garbage problem post-matches and are taking steps to address it," assures an official from the Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC). "Cleanup crews are deployed immediately after the matches to ensure that streets are cleared of litter as quickly as possible."
Despite efforts, residents stress the need for proactive measures to mitigate IPL match impacts on their locality. Suggestions range from increased waste management infrastructure to stricter enforcement of public conduct rules.
"As a host city, Guwahati should take pride in showcasing its hospitality and cleanliness," remarks Kunal, a concerned resident. "We need better planning and coordination to ensure IPL matches leave a positive legacy for our city."
Despite assurances from authorities, the lack of permanent solutions continues to concern residents and stakeholders. With IPL matches just around the corner, the urgency to address this issue grows.
As Guwahati gears up to host the IPL matches, the spotlight shines not only on the cricketing extravaganza but also on the pressing need for improved infrastructure and amenities. The city's residents and visitors alike hope for provisions to ensure a more comfortable and hygienic experience for all during the sporting event.
