The Goa government has blacklisted contractor Techton Buildcon Pvt Ltd following widespread criticism and multiple technical failures in the recently renovated Kala Academy building in Panaji. The renovation, which cost over ₹50 crore, was plagued by significant issues, including problems with the sound and lighting systems in the 1,000-seat Dinanath Mangueshkar auditorium, faulty air conditioning, and frequent technical glitches during live performances. Artists and opposition parties have condemned the work, calling it a major embarrassment for Goa’s premier cultural venue.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant stated that the contractor has been given a deadline of October 2025 to fix the defects at no extra cost to the government. Also, the planned four-year Annual Maintenance Contract (AMC) with Techton Buildcon has been canceled. A government-appointed task force has identified 18 to 20 specific faults in the renovation and recommended bringing in new consultants to supervise the necessary repairs. The Kala Academy may be temporarily closed during the rectification process, with a new tender expected to be issued for further corrective work.
