A novel cricket tournament aimed at spreading the crucial message of cleanliness and civic responsibility was launched in Lucknow on Monday. The event, part of the broader Swachh Survey 2025-26 initiatives, saw its opening ceremony at the iconic KD Singh Babu Stadium.
Mayor Inaugurates with a Clean Drive
Lucknow Mayor Sushma Kharakwal formally inaugurated the tournament, emphasizing the power of sports in driving social change. The inaugural match set the tone for the competition, featuring a face-off between Mayor XI and Media XI. The mayor highlighted that such engaging events are instrumental in taking the message of sanitation and hygiene to the masses in a relatable manner.
A Tournament with a Green Conscience
In a significant move, the mayor informed attendees and participants that the entire cricket tournament is being conducted as a zero-waste event. This approach underscores the commitment to practicing the very principles of cleanliness and environmental responsibility that the tournament seeks to promote. The initiative aims to demonstrate that large public gatherings can be managed sustainably.
Teams and Participants Gear Up
The tournament has drawn participation from four key teams, each representing different pillars of the city's community. The competing sides are:
- Mayor XI
- Municipal Commissioner XI
- Jalkal XI
- Media XI
These teams will battle it out on the cricket field in the coming days, using the sport as a platform for a greater cause. The opening event was well-attended by senior municipal officials, councilors, and representatives from the media, reflecting a collaborative effort between the city's administration and the fourth estate.
Beyond the Boundary: The Larger Message
This cricket tournament is more than just a sporting contest; it is a creative community engagement tool under the Swachh Bharat Mission framework. By integrating the popular passion for cricket with the national priority of cleanliness, the Lucknow Municipal Corporation hopes to foster greater public participation and behavioral change. The event marks a proactive step by the city administration in Lucknow to make the Swachh Bharat campaign a participatory and enjoyable public movement.
