India's first FIFAtournament to bestaged in Delhi
The Under-17 World Cup will kick off in New Delhi, marking India's first-ever FIFA tournament, world football's governing body said yesterday despite initial concern over air quality in the world's most polluted capital. After a week-long inspection, authorities selected six cities across the country including Mumbai and New Delhi for the U-17 matches, FIFA said.
Last month FIFA U-17 World Cup tournament director Javier Ceppi said that air quality in Delhi was a "serious concern", particularly since the tournament will be held in the same month as the Diwali festival, when residents celebrate by setting huge amounts of fireworks.
Pollution levels spiked to record levels in Delhi around Diwali last year, forcing schools to shut as authorities ordered a series of emergency measures including a temporary ban on construction. The Under-17 World Cup will be held from October 6-28.
Last month FIFA U-17 World Cup tournament director Javier Ceppi said that air quality in Delhi was a "serious concern", particularly since the tournament will be held in the same month as the Diwali festival, when residents celebrate by setting huge amounts of fireworks.
Pollution levels spiked to record levels in Delhi around Diwali last year, forcing schools to shut as authorities ordered a series of emergency measures including a temporary ban on construction. The Under-17 World Cup will be held from October 6-28.