Shimla, February 26:
Even after 78 years of Independence, the historic town of Junga continues to lag behind in basic development. The absence of a bypass road to Old Junga has resulted in frequent traffic congestion, as buses and other vehicles are forced to pass through the town’s narrow streets, leading to regular jams.
Despite its historical significance as the former headquarters of the Keonthal State—once ruled by 18 Thakurais—Junga today presents a deserted look. While the government has been organizing a flying festival for the past three years in an attempt to promote tourism, the initiative has failed to generate any noticeable boost in tourist activity.
With a population exceeding 3,500, including staff of the Forensic Science Laboratory and a police battalion, Junga still awaits the status of a Nagar Panchayat. In 2020, the then Chief Minister and Urban Development Minister of the BJP government had announced plans to grant Nagar Panchayat status to Junga, but the promise remained unfulfilled. The present government has also not taken any concrete steps in this direction.
Civic amenities in the town remain inadequate. There is no proper sanitation system, and the public toilet near the school ground is reportedly in a deplorable condition. The lack of accessible and clean toilets has particularly affected women, especially as residents from nearly 12 surrounding panchayats frequently visit Junga for tehsil-related and other official work.
Around 14 buses ply through Junga daily, but in the absence of a designated bus stand, vehicles are parked along the roadside, further worsening traffic congestion. Additionally, tehsil offices serving 12 panchayats reportedly lack proper telephone facilities. The town also suffers from a complete lack of parking infrastructure, causing inconvenience to visitors and vehicle owners.
When contacted, the Assistant Engineer of PWD Junga stated that no proposal has been received by the department for the construction of a bypass road for Old Junga.
Residents have urged the government to address these long-pending issues and ensure planned development for the historic town.
