British-built treasury in Palampur faces neglect

Ravinder Sood

Palampur, November 17

The local treasury building, which is considered to be the oldest building and a landmark of the town, is in a state of utter neglect. In the last one decade, its condition has turned from bad to worse. Half of the structure is covered with bushes and stray dogs can be seen moving around this historic monument. The authorities concerned have been a mute spectator to the situation.

The historic building was built by the British after the 1905 earthquake, and was declared a heritage asset by the state government in 2010. Then Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh had directed the authorities concerned to maintain it properly.

This building was used by the British administration before Independence. Later, the Kangra administration took it over and it continued to be used as the treasury building.

In 2011, the new building of the mini-secretariat was constructed, where the offices of SDM, Tehsildar and other government departments were shifted. However, orders were issued not to dismantle this building and rather keep a part of it intact to be maintained as a heritage asset.

Later, while inaugurating the new complex, then Chief Minister Prem Kumar Dhumal had directed the PWD to repair the structure and seek the assistance of the Archaeological Survey of India to install railings around the building to save it from further damage. However, the building continues to be in bad shape.

“The government should make efforts to conserve and promote its heritage and art forms. Several heritage buildings in the state are in a bad shape due to neglect. A blue print should be prepared for the conservation and promotion of the state heritage,” said BJP leader Shanta Kumar.

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Caption: The oldest building of Palampur, which was built by the British, in a shambles. Photo by writer