BCCI to develop green stadia under Go Green Initiative : Anurag Thakur

“We have earmarked Rs 100 crore for our ‘Go Green’ initiative, wherein existing cricket stadia across the country are being converted into green stadia. We have already written to the Central ministers of Power and Environment to guide us in this regard,” Thakur said in a brief interaction with the media, reported PTI.

The newly appointed BCCI President, who was speaking at the inauguration of two new cricket grounds developed by Andhra Cricket Association and the Krishna District Cricket Association at Mulapadu village, said that the board is already putting up solar panels at all stadiums for power generation.

"We are putting up solar panels in all stadiums for power generation. We will have rain water harvesting structures in place. We will use sewerage water, treat it and reuse it for the grounds. We will also use LED bulbs to bring in energy efficiency. We will also do an energy audit to make the green stadia," Thakur elaborated.

When asked about BCCI’s plans to develop cricketing infrastructure in the country, Thakur said that the cricket body has done more than any other sporting association in the country.

"They are totally dependent on the Government of India or the state governments for funds, whereas we spend from our own earnings. Most affiliates or permanent members of BCCI created their own international stadiums and academies, which is a good thing.

"World over...Australia and other countries...the grounds are common grounds created by their governments, not the national boards. I think BCCI is one organisation appreciated all over the world. They look up to the BCCI and its functioning. I am sure we cannot do much better in future," the 41-year-old was quoted as saying by PTI.