The Sukhna lake-centerpiece of Chandigarh was created in 1958 spread over an area of 565 acres. From its inception it started silting, as a result of which by April, 1988 the water cover reducedto a third of the original area and unwanted vegetation grew on the dry bed. By May, 1988, one could walk across the'Lake'before the onset ofthe monsoon. Sukhna Shramdan - a touching storyhow the agencies, governmental, non-governmental as well as citizens, joined handsto save the lake fromextinction was monted in April-July, 1988, to desilt the lake by dry and wet dredging, through voluntary manual labour. From an initial trickle of volunteers, the Shramdan turned into a torrent creating a unique experience. Transcending barriers of caste, creed, religion, social and economic status, people from all walks of life participated in this noble venture, signifying the underlyingfeature of our culture - unity in Diversity. The Save Sukhna Lake Society was formed to provide a banner to the campaign.

The Society raised funds to the tune of Rs. 15 Lakhs trough membership fees and donations. The campaign, lasting over 75 days, put togather manual efforts supplemented by machinery, made available free of hire charge, removed 35 lakh cft. of earth, planted over 25,000 saplings in the catchment areas and sprinkled seeds and fertilizerson the lower Shivalikhs with the help of the Air Force, the NCC and NSS volunteers.

The Government of India declared the water feature asa National Wetland releasing over Rs. 7lakhs for conservation of the lake. Meanwhile, the National Games, 1989 were allotted to Punjab State, selecting Sukhna Lake as the venue for water sports provided the Chandigarh Administration could ensure a standard length rowingcourse before the onset of the monsoons. Sukhana Shramdan once again accpted the challenge and entered its second phase.

The gaencies of the Haryana & Punjab Goverments, Punjab Tractor Ltd., HMT, Pinjore, the Western Command and the Save Sukhana lake Society came forward once again withcamel carts, earth excavators, dumpers, tippers and dozens to prepare a water course of international standards for the rowing competitions.

In a period of 72 days,a rowing channel 2150 meters long, 62.5 meters wide and 3 meters deep wascreatedby Sukhna Shramdan.

Source : Information Folder issued by Indian Posts & Telegraph Department, Government of India