A 200-foot-long section of the historic Amer Fort wall in Jaipur, Rajasthan, collapsed on Saturday following relentless rainfall in the region, according to reports from the Press Trust of India.
A widely circulated video captured the dramatic scene, showing a large portion of the wall caving in under the pressure of the rains. Torrents of water flowed through the collapsed structure, carrying debris down the slope. A huge mound of rubble, with streams of rainwater running over it, formed at the base of the site.
The thunderous sound of the collapse startled visitors inside the fort, but fortunately, no casualties were reported. However, several parked vehicles were damaged, with some two-wheelers buried under the debris. A major tragedy was narrowly avoided.
The collapse comes amid a spell of destructive monsoon weather that has caused damage across parts of India. Just days earlier, a roof at a dargah near Humayun’s Tomb in Delhi caved in during heavy rain, tragically killing six people and injuring several others. While no lives were lost in Jaipur, both incidents highlight the vulnerability of heritage structures to extreme weather conditions and the urgent need for conservation efforts.
Amer Palace Superintendent Dr Rakesh Chholak confirmed that the Rambagh wall, located in front of the Jwala Mata Temple along the route from the elephant stand to the palace, had collapsed due to the rains. The adjoining road and nearby structures have also been weakened.
As a precautionary measure, elephant rides at Amer Fort have been suspended until further notice. Authorities are monitoring the situation to ensure visitor safety and to prevent further damage.
Also known as Amber Fort, Amer Fort is one of Rajasthan’s most iconic landmarks. Located about 11 kilometres from Jaipur, this majestic fort-palace, built of red sandstone and marble, is a stunning example of Rajput and Mughal architectural fusion. Recognised as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Hill Forts of Rajasthan” since 2013, the monument draws thousands of tourists daily, particularly during the monsoon season when the fort’s backdrop of Aravalli Hills comes alive with greenery.
Check local weather reports before planning a visit during the monsoon season.
Expect partial restrictions inside Amer Fort; elephant rides are currently suspended.
Wear sturdy footwear as the grounds may be slippery in wet conditions.
Allow extra time for travel, as heavy rain can slow down traffic in Jaipur.
Follow safety advisories issued by fort authorities for your protection.
Q1. What caused the wall of Amer Fort to collapse?
Heavy and continuous rainfall in Jaipur weakened the Rambagh wall near the Jwala Mata Temple, causing a 200-foot section to collapse.
Q2. Were there any casualties in the Amer Fort collapse?
No, there were no injuries or fatalities reported. However, several vehicles parked nearby were damaged.
Q3. Is Amer Fort still open to tourists after the wall collapse?
Yes, Amer Fort remains open, though elephant rides have been suspended as a precaution. Visitors are advised to follow safety advisories issued by authorities.
Q4. Has heavy rain affected other heritage sites recently?
Yes, earlier in the week, a roof collapse at a dargah near Humayun’s Tomb in Delhi resulted in six deaths and several injuries, showing the broader impact of monsoon rains on heritage sites.
Q5. Why is Amer Fort significant for tourists?
Amer Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Rajasthan’s most visited monuments, known for its Rajput-Mughal architecture, intricate carvings, and panoramic views of Jaipur.
