Guwahati, July 16 (IANS) Football fever has gripped Assam with the Chief Minister’s FIFA Fan Park initiative transforming into a major public attraction across the state, drawing thousands of football enthusiasts to watch the FIFA World Cup matches together on giant screens.

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said on Thursday that the Fan Parks have evolved into a football carnival over the past few days, with supporters from different cities gathering to cheer for their favourite teams and celebrate the world’s biggest sporting spectacle.

“Over the last few days, #CMFIFAFanPark has become a football carnival, with fans across our cities watching, cheering and creating lifelong memories,” the Chief Minister said in a post on social media platform X.

Inviting football lovers to witness the remaining matches, Chief Minister Sarma urged people to visit their nearest Fan Park, which will remain open till 3:30 a.m. to accommodate late-night World Cup fixtures.

The initiative, which began in Guwahati, has now expanded to several districts, including Dibrugarh, Jorhat and Lakhimpur, with each venue witnessing enthusiastic participation from youngsters, families and football fans.

Large LED screens, seating arrangements and festive decorations have recreated a stadium-like atmosphere, allowing thousands of supporters to enjoy the matches collectively despite the late-night kick-off timings.

The Fan Parks have emerged as community spaces where supporters of different nations celebrate the sport together, reinforcing the Northeast’s reputation as one of India’s strongest football regions.

The initiative has also highlighted Assam’s deep-rooted football culture, with fans turning up in large numbers wearing jerseys of their favourite teams, waving flags and celebrating every goal amid loud cheers.

With the FIFA World Cup nearing its conclusion, excitement has reached its peak as fans prepare for the remaining fixtures, including the title clash.

The state government expects the Fan Parks to continue drawing large crowds for the final matches, providing football enthusiasts an opportunity to experience the excitement of the World Cup in a festive and safe community setting.

–IANS

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