Neglected Symbols: Fading Direction Signs of Shimla

Shimla, July 31 Ritanjali Hastir

Shimla, a town renowned for its picturesque beauty and historical charm, has long been a beacon for tourists and locals alike. Among its many attractions are the unique direction signs cast into its walls at various locations, guiding visitors through the town’s maze-like alleys and streets. Once meticulously maintained by the tourism department, these signs symbolized the town’s history and commitment to welcoming guests. However, recent neglect has turned these once-proud markers into mere shadows of their former selves.

Take, for instance, the direction sign near the CTO slope. Once a pristine guide for lost tourists, this particular sign is now smeared with wastewater, ruts, and fungus. What was once a symbol of care and maintenance has been reduced to an eyesore, ignored by all, including the numerous government officials and municipal corporation members who frequently stroll by. The once-prominent engravings now lie hidden under layers of grime and neglect, a silent testament to the city’s failing upkeep.

One might wonder how such neglect goes unnoticed. After all, Shimla’s streets are often walked by officials from the Municipal Corporation, the Deputy Commissioner’s office, and various political representatives. Yet, despite their frequent presence, the dilapidated state of these direction signs fails to catch their eye. Perhaps it’s a case of selective blindness, where the city’s issues become invisible to those in power.

The irony of the situation is starkly highlighted by the tourism department’s “Har Ghar Kuch Kehta” initiative. The campaign, meant to emphasize the unique stories each home in Shimla tells, becomes a parody when juxtaposed with the reality of these neglected signs. If the walls of Shimla indeed have stories to tell, they are currently screaming at the top of their lungs to be saved, yet, ironically, no one seems to hear them. “Har Ghar Kuch Kehta” might as well be renamed “Koi Kuch Nai Kehta Hai,” as the pleas of Shimla’s historical markers go unanswered.

Adding insult to injury, local painters have taken to using these signs as canvases for their phone numbers and graffiti. The civic pride that once preserved these signs has given way to a blatant disregard for their historical and functional value. It’s as if the signs’ degradation is not only tolerated but actively contributed to by those who should be preserving them.

Shimla’s tourism department has undoubtedly achieved much in the past, but this glaring oversight threatens to undermine their efforts. The neglect of these direction signs is more than just an aesthetic issue; it is a symbol of the city’s broader administrative failures. It highlights a disconnect between the town’s historical charm, which draws tourists, and the modern-day neglect that threatens to drive them away.

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In conclusion, it is high time that the responsible authorities take notice of this issue. The walls of Shimla, and the stories they tell, deserve better. The direction signs need to be restored and maintained with the same care and pride that once defined Shimla’s approach to tourism. Let us hope that the next time an official or a political representative takes a stroll through the town, they see more than just the familiar streets; they see the urgent need to preserve Shimla’s historical markers for future generations. Otherwise, the town’s walls will continue to scream, and Shimla will continue to be a parody of its former self.