BENGALURU: The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) team is the richest franchise in the Indian Premier League (IPL) though they have not won a single title so far. The RCB also has the highest fan following than any other team with millions of supporters on social media including Facebook, Instagram and X. The loyal band of fans support the RCB team whether they win or lose a match.
The RCB is now planning to get into social service activities. The cricket franchise has been creating awareness about the environment by wearing a green jerseys every time in its edition. It has now decided to revive three lakes in Bengaluru under the its ‘Go Green’ initiative. The franchise has taken up this work under the team’s green campaign.
The restoration of the Ittgalapura Lake and Sadenahalli Lake in Bengaluru has reached the final stage of construction. Sources said, that basic facilities are being developed for citizens in Kannur Lake. The RCB has started a lake revitalization project under ESG commitment since last October. It also aims to develop water resources in areas deprived of Cauvery water and areas that are dependent on groundwater and rainwater sources.
According to reports, over 1.20 lakh tons of silt and sand have been removed at the Ittgalpura Lake and Sadenahalli Lake, which has been used to create bunds and pathways across the lakes and 52 farmers have taken the soil to use as topsoil for their fields as well.
“The welfare of local communities is our aim. Restoration of major lakes in Bengaluru will help increase groundwater levels. Water will be provided to neighbouring villages for agriculture and other activities”, said RCB chief Rajesh Menon.
Lost more matches than winning in green jersey
RCB started playing in a green jersey for one match since the 2011 IPL edition. It was also intended to create awareness and deliver a message to the public to preserve nature. RCB won the IPL match in 2011, lost in 2012, 2013 and 2014. In 2015, the match was cancelled without any results, and it again won in 2016. Then it lost the match consecutively in 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020. The team was defeated in the blue jersey in 2021. In 2023, RCB secured a 7-run win in the nail-biting encounter against the Rajasthan Royals at their home stadium.