Councillor Jack Sukhija Demands Opening of Campal Stadium Facilities for Public Use

Councillor Jack Sukhija Demands Opening of Campal Stadium Facilities for Public Use

~ 10,000 Panaji residents, including senior citizens and children have been deprived of stadium, walking track and children’s play area facilities for more than three years, Jack said.

Panaji, June 2026 – The Campal Parade Ground and Stadium Complex, spread over 40,000 square metres in the heart of the capital, Panaji, has been lying shut despite being completed nearly three years ago, Ward 17 councillor Jack Sukhija has said, adding that more than 10,000 city residents who live in the vicinity have been unable to access the facility meant for their use.

Speaking to media persons, Jack pointed out that a football stadium, walking track and children’s play area have been developed to a high standard under the Smart City initiative, but expressed dissatisfaction that the facility continues to remain inaccessible to the very public, whose taxes have funded the urban redevelopment.

“From what I can see, the facilities have been developed to a top-class standard. We have seen that because of the Smart City project many issues have come up, but this is one of the better projects, and it is mind-boggling why it is not open,” the councillor said.

According to media reports, the city complex which has been redeveloped at a cost of around Rs. 30 crore, comprises a football pitch, 1,350-seater covered stands, a multipurpose lawn, children’s play area, outdoor gym and smart parking.

Jack has now made a point-blank demand. “This ground should be made available for use by the people of Panaji. We want this open so that the people of Panaji can get access to these facilities.”

The councillor noted that the facility is located in a central area and is surrounded by residential colonies, with at least 10,000 residents likely to benefit from its amenities. He also pointed out that a large number of senior citizens living in the nearby areas could make use of the walking track and other facilities. “There is no reason to keep it closed,” the councillor said.

Calling on the Smart City Mission and the Corporation of the City of Panaji (CCP) to take immediate action, Jack urged the authorities to make the facility operational and accessible to the public. He stated that no formal representation has yet been submitted to the authorities, as the immediate focus is on creating public awareness about the continued closure of the facility. Jack also added that further steps on the issue would be considered after assessing the public response and the actions taken by the concerned authorities.