The iconic Hollong forest bungalow in Jaldapara National Park was completely destroyed by a fire on Tuesday night.
The blaze, which began around 9.30pm, consumed the three-storied wooden structure, a beloved site in the Dooars renowned for its proximity to one-horned rhinos.
Two fire engines from Madarihat were dispatched but were unable to control the flames that engulfed the bungalow. Initial investigations by firefighters suggest a short-circuit in the air conditioning unit as the probable cause.
Thankfully, the forest had been closed to visitors since June 15, and no tourists were present at the time of the incident.
Bhaskar JV, Chief Forest Officer of North Bengal, has assured that a thorough investigation will be conducted to determine the exact cause of the fire. "No one was injured since there was no tourist," confirmed Niraj Singhal, the state's head of forest force.
Built in 1967, the Hollong bungalow was a favorite among both domestic and international tourists for its tranquil setting and wildlife sightings.
Over its nearly 57-year history, it hosted countless visitors seeking a unique forest experience.
The destruction of the bungalow has left the tourism community in shock and mourning.
Debal Ray, Chief Wildlife Warden of Bengal, echoed the need for a detailed probe, stating, "Apparently, it seems the bungalow caught fire from a short-circuit. We will have it thoroughly probed."
This heritage bungalow, a favored travel spot for both former Chief Minister Jyoti Basu and the current office-holder Mamata Banerjee, is situated near the wilderness of Jaldapara National Forest and was renovated in 2010.
This news comes a day after the Kanchanjungha train accident in Darjeeling, West Bengal, which claimed the lives of nine people and resulted in 30 injuries.
All bookings for the bungalow have been canceled until the forest reopens on September 15.
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