After weeks of heavy rain causing massive devastion in Himachal Pradesh, the landslide in the outer lawns of the Viceregal Lodge, presently housing the Indian Institute of Advanced Study (IIAS) in Shimla, has raised major concerns about the safety of the 149-year old historic building. The landslide that occurred in Summer Hill on August 14 started reportedly from the periphery of the extended lawns of the IIAS. The rain-triggered landslide not only uprooted tall deodar trees but also swallowed a Shiv temple and claimed 17 lives.
Deputy Commissioner, Shimla, Aditya Negi while talking to the news agency PTI said that cracks have developed in some portion of the IIAS complex and preventative steps have been taken. He added that despite all this, there is no danger to the building. He added, “There is a possibility of a landslide at IIAS which may cause loss of lives and property and we have written to the State geologist to conduct an inspection of the IIAS and immediately submit a report in this regard."
The Viceregal Lodge which is situated on Observatory Hill was constructed by flattening the hill and the debris of it was dumped on the slopes which settled over time. The massive landslide that occurred was mainly the debris which had loosened over time and become ductile due to seepage of water.
The main building was constructed in the early 1880s and was the residence of Viceroy Lord Dufferin during 1884-1888. After India's Independence, the lodge was renamed 'Rashtrapati Bhawan' as the President of India used to come and stay here during the summer months.
Search and rescue operations have been going on in Shimla and Sunday marks the 7th day of the operations. NDRF Inspector, Roop Sharan while talking to news agency ANI said, "Today is the 7th day of the search & rescue operation in Shimla. We have recovered 17 bodies & we are searching for other three victims...Teams of SDRF, NDRF & Indian Army are present at the spot...We are putting in our best efforts & hoping to retrieve the other victims."