Dilapidated danger: Solan’s abandoned buildings become addicts’ haven

In the absence of effective surveillance, several old and dilapidated buildings in Solan have become safe havens for drug addicts, with one such structure near the Old Bus Stand-Chambaghat road emerging as a stark example. The abandoned Tourism Department building, once known as ‘Tourism Bangla’, has been lying unused for decades and was declared unsafe months ago. Yet, it remains standing in a state of complete ruin, posing both structural and social risks.

Local residents said they had noticed suspicious movement around the building for several days and alerted the police. When a police team reached the spot, they recovered injections, bottles, biscuits and other drug paraphernalia, confirming residents’ fears. Worried for the safety of their children and the rise in petty crime associated with addiction, they are now demanding the immediate demolition of the structure.

The building, located within the busy old bus stand area, has long been neglected and could crumble at any time. Its deserted state has made it an easy refuge for addicts seeking hidden spaces to consume drugs.

Just days ago, Ward No. 5 councillor Amardeep Panja detected a foul smell emanating from the building and informed the municipal corporation, suspecting a dead animal. When staff entered the premises, they found dirty blankets laid out, indicating that someone had been using the site as a shelter. Large quantities of syringes, bottles and other narcotics-related materials were scattered inside.

Recognising the gravity of the situation, Panja alerted the police, who recovered further drug-related items during their search. He has urged the administration to take swift action to curb such illegal activities and ensure residents’ safety.

With secluded stretches near railway tracks also turning into hideouts for addicts, residents say it is time for everyone to stay vigilant and prevent such spaces from becoming breeding grounds for illicit behaviour.