Rs 2-cr project fully financed with panchayat's own funds
The new walkway connecting Calangute Church to Boa Viagem Chapel is set to enhance local tourism and community life in the beach village.
MAPUSA
As a thoughtful Christmas gift to its residents, the Calangute Panchayat unveiled a picturesque walkway spanning nearly one kilometer, linking the historic Calangute Church to the Boa Viagem Chapel.
This scenic footpath offers pedestrians a safe route with breathtaking views of the lush fields flanking the road, making it a significant boost to local tourism and community life.
The project, costing Rs 2 crore, was entirely funded by the panchayat.
First proposed by the nuns of St Alex Convent in 1993, it took three decades to materialize. The walkway has been dedicated to the late Monsignor Rev Fr Herculano Gonsalves, who served as the parish priest of Calangute Church in 1932.
Calangute Sarpanch Joseph Sequeira commended the efforts of local authorities and contractors for completing the project. He thanked the government for its support and assured that the panchayat would maintain the facility, which features benches, waste bins and street lighting for public convenience, even during evenings.
“This project has been constructed with panchayat money and therefore belongs to the people of the village,” said Sequeira. “If there was no cooperation from panchayat members, this footpath would not have been possible. In 1993, the sisters made an application for this, and today it is a reality.”
Deputy Sarpanch Geeta Parab called the walkway a “long-pending dream” finally fulfilled, adding that the project was conceived as a signature initiative for the beach village.
President of the Calangute Constituency Forum, Premanand Diukar highlighted the rapid development in the area but raised concerns about sustainability.
“Is this sustainable development? Will these projects benefit the masses or turn into a concrete jungle?” he cautioned, urging villagers and authorities to preserve the area's natural beauty.
Looking ahead, Sarpanch Sequeira revealed several upcoming projects for the village.
These include a market-cum-bus stand to address traffic congestion, a roundabout at Bodkovod, junction beautification at Porbavaddo, and the renovation of Dolphin Circle.
He noted that the market project, supported by the panchayat and local farmers, is expected to commence within two years.
This thoughtful initiative highlights the Panchayat’s commitment to enhancing both the infrastructure and cultural appeal of Calangute, offering the perfect blend of heritage and modernity as a gift to its residents this festive season.
