IPL 2025: Rajasthan govt to set up ORS and water counters at SMS Stadium to combat heatwave

Jaipur(The Uttam Hindu): With temperatures soaring and a heatwave gripping Rajasthan, the state government has put in place special measures at Sawai Mansingh (SMS) Stadium in Jaipur ahead of the first IPL 2025 match, scheduled for April 13. In order to safeguard the health of both spectators and players, ORS (Oral Rehydration Solution) stations and drinking water facilities will be made available throughout the stadium. Neeraj K. Pawan, Secretary of the Youth Affairs and Sports Department, stated, “Given the rising temperatures and the upcoming day match, we have urged the administration to set up ORS counters across the venue to ensure hydration for both the audience and players.”

Additionally, water will be provided free of charge at multiple points inside the stadium. Pawan also shared that a dedicated medical team will be stationed at the venue, ready to provide immediate assistance in case of any heat-related emergencies for spectators and players. On sustainability efforts, Pawan mentioned, “We have partnered with Bisleri under a MoU, where they will be responsible for collecting used plastic bottles and caps from the stadium. In exchange, they will provide eco-friendly benches as part of our green initiative.”

He further noted that in alignment with the state’s 'Hariyalo Rajasthan' campaign and the Prime Minister’s 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' initiative, spectators will be encouraged to plant a sapling each during the Sawan month. The number of trees planted will correspond to the runs scored during the match, with an expected 1,500 to 2,000 trees being planted at the venue, based on the aggregate runs scored across five IPL matches in Jaipur.

Additionally, players from all teams, including Rajasthan Royals, Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bangalore, Sunrisers Hyderabad, Punjab Kings, and Gujarat Titans, will participate in planting trees as part of this initiative. “This will be a Green IPL, and we’re committed to setting a standard in sustainable sports event management. SMS Stadium will serve as a model for eco-conscious sporting events,” emphasized Pawan. The IPL 2025 season opener in Jaipur will feature a thrilling match between Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). The Rajasthan Royals are expected to arrive in Jaipur on April 10, followed by RCB on April 11, as confirmed by team officials.