Lucknow woke up to a fresh debate on air quality on Wednesday night after dense smog forced the fourth T20I between India and South Africa to be called off at the Ekana Stadium. As fans expressed anger and disappointment, the Uttar Pradesh government stepped in, warning people against trusting what it called “misleading” air quality data shown by private AQI apps.
Govt says Lucknow AQI was ‘moderate’
According to the state government, Lucknow’s Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 174 on match day — a level classified as ‘moderate’ under India’s National Air Quality Index (NAQI) system. Officials argued that several private apps circulating on social media exaggerated pollution levels, adding to confusion and panic.
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Quoting officials, news agency PTI reported that many private platforms use hyper-local or non-standardised data, often based on foreign benchmarks such as US Environmental Protection Agency (US-EPA) norms, which do not align with Indian conditions.
Why private AQI apps can be misleading
Officials explained that government monitoring stations in areas like Lalbagh, Talkatora and Aliganj rely on certified and calibrated instruments. In contrast, many private agencies depend on satellite data or low-cost sensors that can throw up sharp spikes due to dust, traffic jams or local activity.
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), they said, calculates AQI using a 24-hour average, giving a broader and more realistic picture of city-wide air quality. Private apps, however, often show momentary readings that don’t reflect overall conditions.
Experts also pointed out that India’s AQI model is designed for local geography and climate, while foreign models may not fully account for factors unique to Indian cities.
Match abandoned after repeated inspections
The controversy erupted after the India vs South Africa fourth T20I was abandoned without a ball being bowled. The toss, scheduled for 6:30 pm, was delayed as thick fog reduced visibility. Umpires conducted multiple inspections, with the final call taken around 9:25 pm to abandon the match.
The decision left fans stunned. BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla was seen on the field during one of the inspections, speaking with match officials. The BCCI also faced criticism for hosting a night match in Lucknow during December, when fog is common across north India.
Fans angry, disappointed
For many fans, the washout was more than just a cancelled game. One supporter said he had sold agricultural produce to afford the trip. “I sold three sacks of wheat to come and watch the match. I want my money back,” he said.
Others questioned the scheduling itself. “Why plan night matches in north India in winter? Fog is expected every year,” another fan said, adding that refunds could not compensate for the missed experience of watching India play live.
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While BCCI rules allow ticket refunds if a match is abandoned without play, several supporters said the emotional and financial investment made the loss far more personal.
Bigger questions remain
The episode has reopened questions around winter scheduling, visibility risks and how air quality data should be communicated to the public. As authorities defend official AQI numbers and fans demand accountability, the Lucknow washout has turned into more than just a cricketing disappointment — it’s now a debate about trust, transparency and planning.
