In what is being described as a "major cultural loss" to the Kingdom of Bhutan, the Wangduephodrang Dzong -- one of the oldest fortresses, dating to 1638 -- is ablaze at this hour. Firemen are unable to cope with the intense heat and strong winds, and the historic fort is burning out of control.
UPDATED: Following a heroic but ultimately futile struggle, during which even His Majesty the King came in person to help, the structure is deemed a total loss at this time. His Majesty has declared tomorrow a day of mourning for the loss of this national symbol. The following "before" and "after" photographs show some extent of the devastation.
This is terrible! Thank you for posting. The main media are not reporting it. I hope part of the fortress is salvaged and maybe the damaged parts can be rebuilt. What a tragedy.
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