Candolim Health Centre Progresses Rapidly, Aims for Pre-Monsoon Completion
Officials from the directorate of health services in Goa confirm that work on the Candolim health centre is advancing quickly. They expect the facility to be ready before the monsoon season arrives. This update comes after the project missed its original December 2025 deadline.
New Building to Offer Comprehensive Medical Services
The health centre, constructed at a cost of Rs 16.4 crore, will transform into a community health centre. It features a ground-plus-one hospital building equipped with outpatient facilities. The design includes separate male and female wards for patient care.
A fully functional casualty department will handle emergencies on-site. The centre also houses a laboratory for diagnostic tests and a dedicated room for an X-ray machine. These additions aim to provide a wide range of medical services to the local community.
Historical Context and Delays in Construction
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant laid the foundation stone for the new wing in February 2020. Sawant previously worked as an ayurvedic doctor at the Candolim primary health centre two decades ago. Initial plans projected a two-year completion timeline for the project.
The COVID-19 pandemic caused significant delays in construction activities. Despite these setbacks, the existing primary health centre, which is fifty years old, continues to operate normally. It will remain functional until the new building becomes operational.
Officials Express Optimism About the Upgrade
Health Minister Vishwajit Rane states that the new facility will meet international standards once finished. He emphasizes the inclusion of emergency treatment facilities as a key improvement. This upgrade addresses long-standing demands from area residents and tourism stakeholders.
Calangute MLA Michael Lobo, who chairs the Goa State Infrastructure Development Corporation, calls the project a dream come true. He highlights the need for a modern medical facility in the Calangute-Candolim region. GSIDC earlier announced an August 2025 completion date, which has now shifted.
Local Demand for Enhanced Healthcare Infrastructure
People living in the area and tourism professionals have repeatedly requested a full-service hospital. They specifically need emergency trauma facilities to handle accidents. Currently, victims from the popular Calangute-Candolim beach belt must travel to GMC Bambolim for basic care.
This lack of local infrastructure has created challenges during medical emergencies. The new community health centre aims to fill this critical gap. It promises to deliver timely and advanced healthcare services right in the community.
