There was a large fire in Paris at night in the historic town hall of the 12th district, built in the nineteenth century. The fire covered the top of the building, including a 30-meter bell tower, which was partially destroyed and its design was charred. The firefighters only took control until the morning, but rescuers and architects continue to work on the spot to estimate the risks of collapse.
The fire began at night on the roof of the town hall on a domil avenue. The fire quickly covered the bell tower, the design of which is an important part of the architectural heritage of Paris. About 150 firefighters and 60 fire trucks were involved in the elimination of the fire. Thanks to their efforts, the fire was localized, but there is a real threat of collapse of the roof and the bell tower. Rescuers still remain in place as the building may be unstable. Police Prefect Laurent Nunes confirmed the risk of collapse and noted that the evaluation of the effects of the fire and the installation of supports may take several days. It is also reported that the bell tower leaned to the side after the fire, which further increases the danger.
The Mayor of Paris Ann Idalgo expressed her sympathy and noted that the scale of damage was significant. Utility workers mentioned that the picture of the fire resembles a tragedy that happened to Notre Dam, as the spire located on the roof is threatened by collapse.
The Town Hall, built in 1876, combines elements of the architecture of the Renaissance and the styles of Louis XIII and Louis XIV. More than 100 employees work in the building every day, making it an important part of the administrative structure of Paris.
