Shimla, March 15 The Shimla Ice Skating Club appealed to the state government on Sunday to first construct an alternative building for the club before converting the historic rink into a year-round ice-skating facility.
The decision was made during an emergency meeting held here by the club members after the state government directed the club to vacate the building by March 19.
The instructions were issued as the government is planning to convert the existing ice skating rink into a year-round facility, for which the main building of the club and the adjoining servant quarters have been proposed to be demolished.
Club president Manpreet Singh said that although the orders have been received verbally and written orders are yet to be received, the immediate order to vacate the building would severely disrupt the club's functioning as there would be no space to store its belongings.
Singh added that if the government first constructs a new building and subsequently shifts the club there, the historic institution can be preserved.
"We are not opposed to the development of modern facilities here; however, it is equally important to maintain the club's identity and tradition," he said.
He further said that the club is a historic heritage institution, and the government should ensure alternative arrangements for the club along with the rink project. "The existence of the 106-year-old ice skating club should not be put at risk," he added.