Rs 2.15 crore project aims to restore building’s structural integrity and visual appeal
The imposing South Goa Administrator of Comunidades building.
MARGAO
The long-neglected South Goa Administrator of Comunidades building in Margao – the administrative seat of Comunidade bodies from down south -- is finally set for a major facelift, bringing relief to residents and stakeholders who have long decried its dilapidated state.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has approved a refurbishment proposal worth Rs 2.15 crore, following a push by PWD Minister and Margao MLA Digambar Kamat. The project aims to restore the building’s structural integrity and visual appeal, transforming what has widely been regarded as an eyesore at the entrance to Goa’s commercial capital.
Speaking on the development, Kamat acknowledged the poor condition of the structure, noting that years of neglect and lack of maintenance had significantly tarnished the city’s image. “The Comunidade building has been an eyesore for years. Visitors arriving in Margao are greeted by a structure in disrepair, which leaves a lasting negative impression,” he said.
He further highlighted that the situation is even worse at the rear of the building, particularly affecting the surroundings of the recently renovated Lohia Maidan. “Despite the successful revamp of Lohia Maidan, the deteriorating condition of the Comunidade building continues to overshadow the entire area,” Kamat added.
Expressing gratitude to the Chief Minister for expediting the approval, Kamat confirmed that work on the refurbishment project is expected to commence shortly. The initiative is aimed at restoring the building’s stature as one of Margao’s key landmarks.
The proposal to renovate the structure is not new. Former PWD Minister Nilesh Cabral had initially initiated the process during his tenure, even floating a tender for the project. However, with only a single bidder participating, the plan failed to move forward and was eventually shelved following his exit from the ministry.
The project has since been revived after Kamat assumed charge of the PWD portfolio in the Sawant-led government. Shortly after taking office, he had assured that efforts would be made to address the building’s condition and eliminate the long-standing civic concern.
With fresh approvals now in place, the long-awaited refurbishment is expected to breathe new life into the aging structure, significantly improving the visual landscape of Margao and reinforcing its identity as Goa’s commercial hub.
Despite its crumbling appearance and severe water seepage during the monsoon—conditions that forced Comunidade officials to relocate operations to the Old Collectorate building more than five years ago—a structural stability assessment conducted by the Goa College of Engineering has offered a ray of hope. The study confirmed that the building remains structurally sound, paving the way for its long-awaited restoration.
