LUCKNOW, April 22 -- Taking note of alleged environmental pollution around Ekana Stadium, the Lucknow bench of the Allahabad high court on Tuesday directed state authorities to file a counter affidavit (reply) on steps taken in response to a public interest litigation, while issuing notice to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Lucknow Cricket Association. A division bench of Chief Justice Arun Bhansali and Justice Jaspreet Singh passed the order on April 21 on a PIL by social activist Brij Bhushan Dubey, observing that the allegations reflect a very sorry state of affairs regarding pollution around the stadium. The court directed the state government, UP Pollution Control Board chairman, district magistrate, municipal commissioner, Lucknow, and MD, UP Jal Nigam (Urban) to submit replies by May 12. Petitioner's counsel said garbage dumping and a sewage drain allegedly flowing into the Gomati river about 400 metres from the stadium were causing air and water pollution, posing risks to the public and cricketers during IPL matches. The petitioner sought removal of the garbage and diversion of the drain. The matter will be heard next on May 12. MANOJ KUMAR SINGH...