Locals Rally to Save Shimla’s Iconic Ridge as Court Steps In
In a heartfelt plea to preserve Shimla’s heritage, the Himachal Pradesh High Court has asked the state government and Shimla Municipal Corporation to respond to concerns over the iconic Ridge Ground. The petition, filed by former Deputy Mayor Tikender Singh Panwar, warns of structural threats to the 140-year-old underground water reservoir beneath the Ridge, endangered by heavy vehicles and frequent commercial events.
The court, acknowledging the urgency, has given authorities four weeks to reply, with the next hearing set for September 3. Panwar’s petition resonates with many locals, including traders and shopkeepers, who recently staged a symbolic shutdown to protest the growing commercialization of the Ridge and Mall Road.
Shimla MC Commissioner Narender Attri responded by clarifying that recent events were held with proper permissions, including from Christ Church authorities. However, the debate continues over balancing heritage preservation with urban development.
As Shimla grapples with modern pressures, the court’s intervention offers a glimmer of hope for those fighting to protect the city’s cultural soul.
