MAPUSA
A portion of the false ceiling at the Peddem indoor stadium came crashing down onto the concourse this week, raising fresh concerns about construction quality and maintenance of public infrastructure.
No injuries were reported, but the collapse has left debris scattered across the floor and the facility temporarily unsafe for use.
The damaged section was part of the recent renovations carried out for the National Games, during which the stadium was refurbished at significant public expense.
The incident has now sparked questions over the quality of the work and the monitoring mechanisms in place.
Aldona MLA Carlos Ferreira, who inspected the site, said the episode highlighted the urgent need for accountability.
“Imagine if this had happened while children or sports enthusiasts were present. Regular inspections are a must to prevent such accidents,” he remarked, demanding that responsibility be fixed and costs recovered from those at fault.
Ferreira pointed out that if the collapse was due to poor workmanship, the contractor should be held liable.
“This was a project undertaken with public money. If funds were sanctioned and the work has failed so soon, then it needs to be examined whether the fault lies with the contractor or lapses within the system,” he said.
Sports officials confirmed that the false ceiling was installed during the National Games renovations and that the matter would be reviewed.
Ferreira has also called on the new Director of Sports, Ajay Gaude, to personally inspect the facility and take corrective measures.
For now, the stadium remains under scrutiny, with users demanding that safety checks and quality control measures be strengthened before the venue is reopened for regular sporting activities.
