Shimla’s Janj Ghar Crumbles: A Legacy at Risk, Capt. Ved Sud Sounds Alarm
Shimla– A historic gem of the city, Jung-Ghar, is on the verge of collapse due to years of neglect, sparking fresh concerns over heritage conservation.
Capt. Ved Sud, a trustee of Janz Ghar, has called for urgent redevelopment to preserve the structure, which not only holds historical significance but also plays a critical role in stabilizing the Ridge.
A Forgotten Landmark
Janj-Ghar, once a symbol of colonial-era architecture, now stands as a crumbling shadow of its past.
Capt. Sud, who has been closely associated with efforts to save the site, emphasized that its deterioration is not just a loss of history but also a threat to the environment and the structural stability of the Ridge.
"This isn't just about saving a building; it’s about protecting Shimla itself," he said.
With unchecked urban development putting pressure on the Ridge, experts believe that Janj Ghar’s restoration could help in stabilizing the area, preventing further subsidence.
A Vision for the Future
The redevelopment proposal, backed by the TRRD Trust and local stakeholders, aims to transform the site while maintaining its architectural integrity.
If restored, Janj-Ghar could become a center for cultural and social activities, benefitting Shimla both economically and socially.
Moreover, the Cancer Serai Project, a key initiative linked to this redevelopment, is envisioned to provide much-needed accommodation and support for cancer patients traveling to Shimla for treatment.
The project could redefine the purpose of this historic site, blending heritage conservation with humanitarian service.
Will the Government Act?
Despite growing calls for intervention, authorities have yet to take concrete steps toward saving Janj-Ghar.
"We have seen multiple proposals in the past, but without action, history will be lost forever," Capt. Sud warned.
With Shimla’s heritage crumbling under bureaucratic apathy, the fate of Janj Ghar now rests on whether policymakers will step up to protect this iconic landmark or let it slip into ruins.
The question remains: Will Shimla preserve its past to secure its future?
