‘Setusangam’, a popular riverside attraction in Bicholim, is set to receive a fresh lease of life, with former MLA Naresh Sawal planning to revive the site ahead of Diwali 2026. Developed in 2016 under Sawal’s initiative, the recreational spot has suffered neglect over the years. The proposed initiative aims to restore its beauty through cleaning, fresh painting and necessary beautification work.

Setusangam was developed with the vision of transforming an open riverside space into a beautiful recreational destination for the people of Bicholim. With the support of the Public Works Department and the Water Resources Department, the area was beautified to provide residents with a peaceful place to enjoy the outdoors, take morning and evening walks, and spend leisure time by the river.

In its initial years, Setusangam emerged as an attractive public space and also hosted several cultural programmes. Its seating arrangements, scenic riverside setting and open surroundings made it a popular destination among residents.

To enhance the importance of the site and inspire the younger generation, Sawal also took the initiative to install a statue of Swami Vivekananda at the premises. However, the lack of proper maintenance over the years gradually affected the appearance and condition of the area.

At present, overgrown vegetation, neglected seating arrangements and unhygienic surroundings have diminished the beauty of Setusangam. There are also concerns about the alleged misuse of the premises by some people consuming alcohol. The deterioration of a place that once served as an important recreational and cultural hub has raised concerns among residents.

Against this backdrop, Sawal has decided to take the initiative to restore Setusangam’s former glory. The proposed work ahead of Diwali will focus on cleaning the premises, repainting structures and carrying out the necessary beautification measures to give the site a fresh and attractive appearance.