Team Goemkarponn
VASCO: The Bhute Bhat ground and its indoor badminton court in Vasco will soon receive a significant facelift under the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative of JSW. Vasco MLA Krishna Salkar, Ward Councillor Deepak Naik, Mormugao Municipal Council (MMC) Chairperson Girish Borker, and JSW officials conducted a joint inspection of the site on Monday.
Announcing the project, Salkar revealed that the renovated badminton court would be inaugurated on December 19, coinciding with Goa Liberation Day
“We placed a proposal with JSW to repair and develop the Bhute Bhat ground under CSR activity. The ground’s compound wall was broken, and the indoor stadium was in disrepair. The roof leaked, pigeons nested in the tiles, and their excreta made the area unsanitary. Additionally, the court’s glass panes were shattered, and the washrooms were partially non-functional,” said Salkar.
Despite these challenges, Vasco’s youth continued using the facility and urged Salkar to address the issue. He noted that a government sports city project at Tanya Ground delayed intervention. “When the government said this project could be taken up later, we approached JSW with a proposal to repair the court and develop the ground,” he added.
Salkar outlined the upgrades included in the project:
Repairing the indoor badminton court and broken spectator stands.
Adding benches and improving lighting to facilitate nighttime activities.
“We suggested adding good lighting, which will help people play and walk around the ground at night. Over 70% of the work is complete, and we’re happy with the progress,” Salkar said.
Emphasizing the importance of sports for youth, Salkar remarked, “Our main intention is to encourage children and youth to spend time on the ground instead of being glued to mobile phones. Sports instill discipline and boost both physical and mental health. Improving sports infrastructure in Vasco is a top priority.”
Salkar also noted the successful use of Tilak Maidan for tournaments after raising the issue in the Assembly. “When the government sets up infrastructure, it must be fully utilized by Goans. Sports Minister Govind Gaude agreed, and we’ve seen many tournaments held there.”
The second phase of the Bhute Bhat project will include repairing the ground and installing a turf, Salkar confirmed. “We are committed to providing Vasco with the best sports facilities for our youth,” he concluded.
The inauguration on December 19 is expected to mark a significant milestone in improving sports infrastructure in Vasco.
