PANAJI: On-going work of upgradation of road , pavements and civil works around Café Bhosle and National theatre area along TB Cunha Road , a project aimed at transforming one of Panaji’s historic junctions into a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly urban space is progressing successfully as IPSCDL and its collaborators tirelessly working towards completing the same soon.
This initiative emphasizes on safe streets, enhanced public spaces and improved urban aesthetics, which aligns with the broader vision of the mission of making Panaji a Smart City.
The project involves a comprehensive re-development of the area and its adjacent streets, incorporating modern urban design principles while preserving the precinct’s heritage and cultural significance. Key elements of the project include road and footpath enhancement, drainage improvements, utility infrastructure upgrades and smart city features.
The road improvement project includes re-cambering and concrete pavement construction along key sections, specifically from Parekh Dormitory to Sai Baba Temple (7m width) and from Chai Corner to TB Cunha Road (8m width). To enhance pedestrian convenience, footpaths will be upgraded with kerbs, granite flooring and designated parking areas. Additionally, specific road improvements will be made near Café Bhosle and the adjacent road. These enhancements aim to improve road quality, streamline pedestrian movement and provide a more organized and accessible urban environment.
To improve drainage, the project includes the refurbishment of 70m of existing stormwater drains and the construction of 60m of new RCC storm water drains. Similarly new sewer lines will be laid with 5 manholes and 12 house connections. Utility infrastructure will be modernized with chambers of varied sizes (1.2m x 1.2m & 1.5m x 1.5m) for the efficient management of water, electrical, OFC cables and gas pipelines. Necessary provisions have been made to almost 32 shops and establishments for connecting the new sewer and electrical networks, ensuring seamless integration of essential utilities.
The project also includes an electrical upgrade with the installation of necessary HT/LT lines, significantly increasing the load capacity of the area. The newly designed utility ducts facilitate the efficient diversion of this service, ensuring that any power failures can be easily addressed and rectified. To support the increased load, one fuse-type mini pillar and two 6-way fuse-type mini pillars will be installed, along with a dedicated streetlight panel. These strategic upgrades are designed to meet the demands of this bustling area, providing enhanced reliability, ease of maintenance, and long-term operational efficiency.
The beautification aspect of the project incorporates smart city elements such as the installation of smart street lighting, landscape features including planters and trees, road and traffic signage and street furniture. These additions aim to create a more inviting and pedestrian-friendly environment. Additionally, the project includes laying new electrical and water supply infrastructure, along with service connections to support future urban growth.
The project is progressing efficiently, with work expected to be completed ahead of schedule due to the implementation of day and night shifts. The construction of Antao De Noronha Road (Café Bhonsle) covering 70 meters and the adjacent road near Chai Corner spanning 30 meters commenced on January 2, 2025 and has successfully been completed before the completion date of March 31, 2025. Meanwhile, work on the central triangular space of 150 square meters, which began on February 2, 2025 is currently ongoing. Footpath and utility laying, originally scheduled from April 1 to May 31, 2025, started ahead of schedule on February 1, 2025. The final phase, which includes landscape and plantation work, is set to begin on June 1, 2025 and conclude by June 30, 2025. With round-the-clock work shifts in place, the overall project is advancing at a faster pace than planned.
A senior IPSCDL official stated, “Given that the work area is surrounded by eateries and lodges, special emphasis has been placed on ensuring the infrastructure seamlessly accommodates the high demand for essential utilities, including sewerage, water supply, electricity, internet connectivity and the gas pipeline. This initiative marks a transformative step toward making Panaji a truly pedestrian-friendly city. By enhancing road infrastructure, modernizing utilities and integrating smart urban solutions, we are shaping a more vibrant, efficient and liveable space for the people . Notably, the project is progressing ahead of schedule and is poised for completion well before the deadline, ensuring swift realization of these vital enhancements.’’