MAPUSA
The controversy surrounding the proposed construction of a futsal court on the village playground adjacent to St Thomas Girls’ High School in Aldona appears to have eased after a detailed discussion at an extraordinary gram sabha held on Sunday.
However, concerns remain, particularly among the school management and senior citizens in the village.
While the school’s management has not objected to the development of recreational facilities like a walking track or volleyball court, they have expressed firm opposition to the futsal court.
The headmistress, Sr Rosarina Crasto and the manager, Sr Ciena Fernandes, voiced apprehension that the commercial nature of the futsal facility could limit access to the playground for students during school hours and compromise the institute’s right to use the space for outdoor activities.
Addressing a large gathering at the gram sabha, Aldona MLA Carlos Ferreira clarified the legal aspects of the proposed project and presented details via a slideshow.
He cited court directives and explained that the futsal court was part of a broader infrastructure plan intended to benefit the local youth.
The project, spearheaded by the Sports Authority of Goa (SAG), includes the development of a synthetic jogging track, parking facilities, laterite masonry spectator stands, and other amenities.
The total estimated cost is pegged at Rs 3.24 crore, and while the technical sanction has already been granted, the proposal is currently awaiting financial approval from the government.
Aldona Sarpanch Ashwin D’Souza stated that the panchayat was not officially involved in the planning or approval of the project.
Local resident William suggested relocating the project to another site.
In response, Ferreira requested villagers to identify and propose a suitable alternative location within 15 days.
During the discussion, issues such as potential noise, operational timings and parking management were raised. Ferreira assured the gathering that the futsal court would be operated with strict time restrictions, no loud music and would be equipped with CCTV surveillance and dedicated personnel to manage the premises.
While a significant section of the youth expressed strong support for the proposed facility, several villagers “ including the nuns from St Thomas Girls’ High School “ remained dissatisfied with the current plan.
