Initiatives Ensuring Cricket and Sports Tourism Sustainability in Indian Towns Dharamshala and Mohali: A Descriptive Analytic Case Study

The history of cricket in India is fascinating enough for scholars and enthusiasts to research on the various facets of this game. With commercialization, advancements in technologies, the scare of environmental degradation is real and providing sustainable solutions for these times is a must. As such, the focus of present study is to examine the environmental concerns during the conduct of cricket matches in Dharamshala and Mohali and to ascertain the initiatives undertaken by relevant stakeholders like Cricket governing bodies (BCCI), Franchises (IPL teams), Environmental organizations (UNEP) in the direction of greening the game in the study areas and across India to ensure cricket sustainability. The two areas have been selected in view of their contributions in promoting cricket events, and giving way to sports tourism there. The information was gathered on a well-structured questionnaire through personal interview method, from the respondents belonging to five categories: Hotels/Guest-Houses; Restaurants/Eating-Points; Vendors/Shops; Auto/Taxis; and Residents. Mean, and F-test (one-way ANOVA), was used to compare the mean opinion scores (based on a five-point Likert scale). It was found that with the introduction of new technologies like rye grass, paspalum grass, rain gun, etc., the authorities in Himachal were able to avoid the recurring rain washouts at the venue and also save water at the same time. On the other hand, the installation of solar panels, partnership for reduction in carbon footprint, etc. the authorities in Mullanpur also put in efforts towards sustainable cricket. The present study stands unique in its approach and, the details provided would be as further reference for the scientific and sports community to work in this field.