The long-awaited football-cum-parade ground at Campal, Panjim, is set to open its gates soon, with 95 per cent of the work already completed. Only the laying of pavers and installation of recreational facilities for children remain, which are expected to be finished within a month.
Jointly developed by the State government and the Imagine Panaji Smart City Development Limited (IPSCDL), the project is estimated to cost Rs 28.85 crore. The upgraded facility will also include dedicated parking for two-wheelers and cars, adding to its accessibility and convenience.
The journey to this nearly completed project has not been without challenges. In January 2021, the Goa State Urban Development Agency (GSUDA) had dropped its initial plan to construct a football stadium at the Campal parade ground due to delays in obtaining a non-objection certificate (NOC) from the Town and Country Planning (TCP) Department, as well as financial constraints. The land, measuring 40,000 square metres, belongs to the TCP Department.
At the time, GSUDA’s general body had stated that the project could be revived if the TCP granted the necessary clearances and if alternative funding was sourced. The opportunity arose when IPSCDL decided, at its board meeting, to take up the construction under the Smart City/AMRUT Mission Scheme of the Government of India. The project, executed through GSUDA as deposit work, was renamed “Rejuvenation of Campal area of Panaji City as green space with recreation centre.”
In March 2021, the TCP Department granted approval for the land’s use, with the condition that the completed project be handed back to the department unconditionally.
Contractor M/s Bagkiya Construction Pvt Ltd has since dismantled the on-site cement plant, and final touches are now underway. With its multi-purpose design and focus on both sports and recreation, the Campal football-cum-parade ground is poised to become a prominent public space in the capital city.