Nearly a year has passed since Panaji's smart city projects were declared complete and commissioned, but ownership of the assets remains unresolved. Imagine Panaji Smart City Development Limited (IPSCDL), the state-owned special purpose vehicle that executed the works on a turnkey basis, continues to manage operations and upkeep. The capital's civic body, the Corporation of the City of Panaji (CCP), has not received formal ownership.

State leaders had proposed creating a multiagency body to take charge of operations and maintenance, with the civic body to be a key participant. Other departments were to be integrated to ensure continuity and avoid duplication, yet formal transfers and a governance framework have not been finalised. The absence of a permanent authority has left IPSCDL performing a role that was not intended to be long term.

As a result, roads, utilities and public spaces face deferred maintenance and digital systems installed under the mission require active monitoring and calibration. The new sewerage line has not been fully aligned with the existing network, and smart systems remain largely unused or underutilised. With no clear custodian, accountability is blurred and residents are uncertain whom to approach for repairs.

Officials had highlighted the need for a structured mechanism to protect investments made under the smart city mission and to streamline maintenance, but action has been limited to ceremonial inaugurations. Public money has been spent on reconfigured streets, upgraded utilities and digital infrastructure, yet visible signs of neglect are appearing. The situation contrasts with earlier statements that governance arrangements would follow commissioning.

Until a formal authority or interdepartmental arrangement is established, Panaji's smart city assets risk slipping into neglect and the benefits of the upgrades may be lost. The longer the delay, the greater the likelihood that maintenance costs will rise and that systems will degrade, reducing returns on public spending. Prompt clarity on ownership and responsibilities is needed to sustain the intended gains.