Escalator at Jakhu Temple, Shimla, Remains Inoperative Just Days After Inauguration

Shimla, March 17
The recently inaugurated escalator at the renowned Jakhu Temple in Shimla, initiated by CM Sukhwindar Singh Sukkhu for eight crores, has once again come to a halt just two days after its launch. Despite long queues of devotees at the temple today, they were compelled to ascend the stairs due to the escalator’s closure. Company officials cited maintenance and quality checks as reasons for the shutdown, ensuring it will resume operation tomorrow. Mayor Surendra Chauhan of the Shimla Municipal Corporation stated that they were informed by the management company about the temporary closure for maintenance and weekly trials. This incident raises questions about the commitment of the government and its long-term planning, especially concerning projects under the Smart City Mission. The escalator, with an approximate cost of over eight crores, spans 46.46 meters and terminates near the statue of Lord Hanuman, adjacent to the Baba Balak Nath Temple.