SHIMLA: A nearly 200-year-old Shahi Mahal of the erstwhile Junga State was reduced to ashes in a massive accidental fire, sending shockwaves across the region and dealing a severe blow to its cultural heritage.
According to preliminary information, the fire broke out suddenly and spread rapidly through the historic structure, leaving little time for any salvage.
Fire and emergency services rushed to the spot, but by the time the flames were brought under control, the major part of centuries-old palace had already been completely gutted.
The cause of the fire remains unknown, and authorities have launched an investigation to determine what triggered the blaze.
No casualties have been reported so far, though the loss of the historic wooden palace is being described as irreparable.
Built around 200 years ago, the Shahi Mahal was a symbol of the Junga State’s royal legacy and traditional kath kuni pahari architecture, near the state capital and belong to Sens of Junga, the parental relative of the Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh's wife Pratibha Singh.
Local residents have expressed deep anguish over the destruction, calling it a tragic reminder of the fragile state of historic structures.
Officials said a detailed assessment of the damage will be conducted once the site is secured, while further details are awaited.
