SHIMLA- Tikender Singh Panwar, the former Deputy Mayor of Shimla and a writer has raised serious concerns regarding the negligence and non-compliance of a High Court order by the Shimla district administration. The Venue of the Shimla Summer festival has been raised right on the banned portion of the water Tanks on The Ridge, the heritage site of the state capital.
In a letter addressed to the Chief Justice of HP High Court, Panwar highlights the potential consequences of ignoring this court order, citing copies of the newspaper report highlighting the HP High Court order.
The city boasts of its own unique aesthetics and land use. The town is divided into various zones, including 'green,' 'core,' 'heritage,' 'sinking,' and 'open.'
Of particular significance is The Ridge, an area with historical importance and a large water reservoir beneath it, dating back more than a century.
This reservoir, constructed using simple mortar and brick without reinforcements, is a fragile structure that requires careful attention.
Panwar emphasizes that The Ridge area falls within the heritage zone and is subject to specific guidelines prohibiting activities that could compromise its integrity. He recalls a High Court order issued on September 12, 2008, explicitly stating that no gatherings or events should take place over the water reservoir.
However, Panwar expresses concern about the ongoing Summer Festival scheduled from June 1 to 4, 2023.
Shockingly, the festival is being held directly over the water reservoir, with a stage and seating arrangements erected atop the fragile structure.
Panwar highlights the potential risks and the violation of the High Court order in allowing such activities to occur.
He reminds the authorities of previous measures taken during his tenure, including marking the entire water tank zone with yellow markings to designate it as a no-vehicle zone. Even ambulances were prohibited from passing over the area due to its delicacy.
Additionally, the Shimla Municipal Corporation had invested nearly Rs. 2 crore in recent years to repair leaks in the reservoir, underscoring its vulnerability.
Panwar urgently requests the authorities to relocate the Summer Festival site away from the water reservoir and to cease all gatherings at this sensitive location. He highlights the immense heritage value of the site and the potential disaster risks associated with its misuse.
Panwar's concerns shed light on the need for immediate action by the authorities to ensure the preservation of Shimla's legacy.
