Decision follows strong response to Shillong Fan Park as Round of 16 matches begin.
Shillong, July 5: Encouraged by the overwhelming response to the Chief Minister’s Football Fan Park in Shillong, the Meghalaya government is planning to set up two more FIFA fan parks in Jowai and Tura for football fans to watch the tournament live.
Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Wailadmiki Shylla announced the plan on Saturday while speaking to reporters during his visit to inspect renovation work at the Aitnar of Seiñraij Ialong in West Jaiñtia Hills.
The state government had earlier set up a Chief Minister’s Football Fan Park at the SRGT Parking Lot in Polo, Shillong, where World Cup matches are being screened live on a giant LED screen free of cost.
“After seeing the huge response from football fans at the Polo Fan Park, and knowing the love people in Meghalaya have for the game, the Chief Minister has directed us to set up similar fan parks in other parts of the state,” Shylla said.
He said the Sports Department has decided to establish one fan park each in Jowai and Tura.
“With the Round of 16 matches about to begin, these fan parks will give football lovers a place to come together and enjoy the matches. It will make the World Cup experience even more exciting,” he added.
Speaking about the proposed Jowai Fan Park, the minister said the department is currently identifying a suitable location. “We want the venue to be in a central location that is easily accessible to everyone. Once the site is finalised, we will make an official announcement,” he said.
The Fan Park at Polo in Shillong was setup on June 26, 2026 and has attracted large crowds throughout the group stage and the Round of 32 matches, with hundreds of football enthusiasts gathering every matchday to cheer for their favourite teams on the big screen.
