Shimla’s 135-Year-Old Home Catches Fire, Locals Rally to Prevent Tragedy
A Chilling Morning Turns Fiery in Chhota Shimla
As winter tightens its grip on Himachal Pradesh, the season’s first major fire incident has shaken the quiet neighborhood of Chhota Shimla. Early Wednesday morning, flames engulfed a 135-year-old two-storey private residence, sending shockwaves through the local community. Thankfully, no lives were lost.
Fire Spreads Within Minutes
According to Shimla SP Sanjeev Gandhi, the fire broke out between 7:30 and 8:00 AM. Eyewitnesses described how the blaze spread rapidly, consuming the historic structure in mere minutes. Quick-thinking locals alerted the fire brigade, and emergency teams arrived swiftly to battle the flames.
No Casualties, But Property Lost
Fortunately, the house was unoccupied at the time, sparing residents from harm. However, the fire destroyed household belongings and left behind significant damage. Officials are now assessing the extent of the loss.
Suspected Short Circuit Under Investigation
While the exact cause remains unclear, initial reports suggest a short circuit may be to blame. Police have launched a full investigation to determine the source and prevent future incidents.
This close call serves as a stark reminder of the fire risks that come with colder months — and the importance of community vigilance and rapid response.
