Sukhna Shramdan, Chandigarh
Technical Data
| Date of Issue | January 29, 1990 |
|---|---|
| Denomination | Rs. 1 |
| Quantity | 1,500,000 |
| Perforation | comb 13½ x 13 |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Nashik |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 1250 Stamp Number IN 1309 Yvert et Tellier IN 1052 Stanley Gibbons IN 1401 |
| Themes | Lakes |
The story of Sukhna Shramdan in Chandigarh is a testament to collective action and community spirit in conserving the Sukhna Lake, a pivotal landmark of the city. Here are the key highlights:
Background and Challenge:
- Sukhna Lake, established in 1958 over 565 acres, faced severe silting issues, reducing its water cover to a third of its original area by April 1988.
- Unwanted vegetation began growing on the dry lake bed, allowing people to walk across it before the monsoon.
Initiation of Sukhna Shramdan:
- Sukhna Shramdan, initiated from April to July 1988, was a voluntary effort involving governmental, non-governmental agencies, and citizens.
- The campaign aimed to desilt the lake through dry and wet dredging using voluntary manual labor.
Community Participation:
- What started with a few volunteers soon gained momentum, transcending barriers of caste, creed, religion, and social status.
- People from all walks of life participated, highlighting India’s cultural ethos of unity in diversity.
Save Sukhna Lake Society:
- The campaign led to the formation of the Save Sukhna Lake Society, which raised funds amounting to Rs. 15 lakhs through membership fees and donations.
Achievements:
- Over 75 days, the campaign removed 35 lakh cubic feet of earth and planted over 25,000 saplings in the lake’s catchment areas.
- Seeds and fertilizers were spread across the lower Shivalik hills with support from the Air Force, NCC, and NSS volunteers.
- The Government of India recognized Sukhna Lake as a National Wetland and released funds exceeding Rs. 7 lakhs for its conservation.
Phase Two – National Games Preparation:
- In preparation for the National Games 1989, Sukhna Shramdan entered its second phase to create an international standard rowing course.
- Various agencies including state governments, corporations, and the Save Sukhna Lake Society collaborated to prepare a 2150 meters long, 62.5 meters wide, and 3 meters deep rowing channel within 72 days.
The Sukhna Shramdan not only rejuvenated the lake but also exemplified the power of collective effort and civic responsibility in preserving natural heritage, ensuring its utility for recreational and sporting purposes.