Inspection reveals lapses in ground levelling work
The Tivim football ground, though levelled at a cost of Rs 50 lakh, shows uneven patches across the playing field, forcing matches to be shifted elsewhere.
The Rs 50 lakh levelling work at the Tivim football ground has come under scrutiny for poor workmanship and incomplete execution, even though officials have already issued a completion certificate to the contractor.
At a supervisory committee meeting and inspection held on Thursday under the chairmanship of Tivim Sarpanch Michael Fernandes, several discrepancies were flagged.
Members observed that the ground development was not carried out in line with the prescribed specifications and that key aspects of the work remained unfinished despite the project being marked as complete.
Despite the levelling work, the ground surface was found to be uneven at multiple points.
The inspection also revealed that the required two-metre leveled borders around the playing field, meant to ensure players’ safety, were not provided.
Further, specifications mandated that the levelling work be carried out with a mixture of 70 per cent mud and 30 per cent sand, but the committee noted that this proportion had not been maintained.
Other deficiencies were also highlighted.
Although the ground is fenced with a parapet wall, the main gate has not been installed, leaving the field open for cattle to enter. As a result, cow dung was found scattered across the playing area.
A walking track laid with pavers around the ground also lacked proper drainage, leading to waterlogging during rains.
“Even after two years, the ground is not in playing condition. Excess money has been paid to the contractor,” said Robert Colaco, former panchayat member and Tivim resident.
He further alleged that a senior engineer had “blindly” issued the completion certificate without verifying the quality of work.
The poor condition of the ground has already disrupted sporting activities.
The Goa Football Association had planned to host third-division matches at the Tivim ground, but the fixtures had to be shifted elsewhere after the field was found unfit for play.
Local children too have been deprived of using the facility.
Taking serious note of the issue, the Tivim Panchayat has resolved to write to the Sports Authority of Goa (SAG), urging it to depute a technical officer to inspect the ground and assess whether it is suitable for football.
Along with Sarpanch Fernandes, seven other panchayat members were present during the inspection and committee meeting.
