A devastating fire on Wednesday completely destroyed the historic Junga Palace in Shimla, reducing the three-centuries-old heritage structure to a pile of ashes. The blaze has caused an irreparable loss to the region's cultural and historical legacy.
Fire Breaks Out at Noon, Palace Gutted
The inferno began around 1 pm on Wednesday within the jurisdiction of the Dhalli Police. Authorities were immediately alerted, and a major firefighting operation was launched. The fire department swiftly deployed three fire tenders from key locations across Shimla: Mall Road, Chhota Shimla, and Boileauganj.
Firefighters, supported by local residents and police personnel, engaged in a fierce battle against the flames for several hours. Their efforts were significantly hampered by the palace's construction. The entire structure was made of wood, which acted as fuel, causing the fire to spread with terrifying speed and intensity. The wooden upper floors of the palace suffered the most extensive damage.
A Legacy in Flames: The History of Junga Palace
The loss is monumental from a historical perspective. Junga Palace was not just an old building; it was the administrative and royal seat of the Keonthal Princely State. For centuries, it stood as a symbol of the region's governance and royal heritage. Its destruction erases a tangible link to a significant chapter in Himachal Pradesh's history.
Fortunately, officials confirmed that there were no casualties in the incident. The palace had been uninhabited for many years, which prevented any loss of human life amidst the catastrophic damage to the property.
Investigation Launched, Damage Assessed
In the aftermath of the fire, authorities have initiated a thorough investigation to determine the exact cause of the blaze. Simultaneously, a detailed assessment is underway to understand the full extent of the structural and historical loss. The focus now is on uncovering how the fire started and documenting what remains of the once-majestic palace.
This incident has sent shockwaves through Shimla and the wider community of heritage conservationists, highlighting the vulnerabilities of India's unprotected historical treasures.
