MARGAO
The iconic Margao Municipal Garden is set for a major transformation, with plans to convert it into a vibrant “Glow Garden” as part of a comprehensive Rs 7-crore city illumination project.
The initiative, announced by Public Works Department (PWD) Minister Digambar Kamat on Monday, is aimed at enhancing the city's aesthetic appeal while improving public safety through modern lighting and surveillance infrastructure.
Addressing the media, Kamat said the government has finalised the contractor and issued the work order for the ambitious illumination project, which will cover key public spaces across Margao, including the Municipal Garden, major roads, playgrounds and other civic areas.
The proposed Glow Garden, a concept already introduced in states such as Kerala and Maharashtra, will feature illuminated installations depicting animals, including tigers and other wildlife, created using glow lighting and decorative displays.
Responding to queries from the media about the concept, Kamat said he had personally seen similar projects in other states and was impressed by their visual appeal. "This is a concept that has been implemented in states like Kerala and Maharashtra. I have seen it myself and found it very interesting. Animals such as tigers and others will be visible in the form of glow displays, creating a unique attraction for visitors," the Minister said.
To familiarise civic officials with the project, Kamat said a detailed PowerPoint presentation would be organised at the Margao Municipal Council. "A presentation is being arranged for the Council officials, and even members of the media are welcome to attend. They can see the concept for themselves and understand what is being planned," he said.
Apart from the decorative lighting, the Municipal Garden will also be equipped with a comprehensive Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) surveillance system as part of the project. The Minister said the installation of CCTV cameras is intended to strengthen security, monitor public activity and help protect the upgraded civic space from vandalism and misuse.
The broader illumination project will also extend to public playgrounds at Aquem and Sirvodem, which will receive modern lighting facilities to improve visibility and encourage greater use during evening hours.
Kamat said the project includes the installation of various types of decorative lighting poles and high-mast lighting systems across the city. "The government has finalised the contractor and issued the work order. Different types of illumination poles and high masts have been proposed across Margao under this Rs 7-crore project," he said.
