CJI ने चिंता जताई: चंडीगढ़ की सुखना झील विनाश के कगार पर

Sukhna Lake is in the news because the Chief Justice of India (CJI) has raised serious concerns about its deteriorating condition, stating that it is on the verge of destruction. This has prompted discussions and calls for urgent conservation efforts.

For the UPSC Prelims, remember that Sukhna Lake is an artificial lake created in 1958 in Chandigarh by damming the Sukhna Choe, a seasonal stream from the Shivalik Hills. Also, note that the CJI recently expressed concern about its degradation.

Sukhna Lake was created in 1958 by damming the Sukhna Choe. The vision was to create a serene environment for the residents of Chandigarh, a city planned by Le Corbusier. It flourished in its initial years, becoming a popular spot.

Current developments include the Chandigarh Administration exploring strategies to combat siltation and pollution, stricter regulations on construction in the catchment area, and an emphasis on community participation in conservation efforts.

Preserving Sukhna Lake's ecosystem is crucial for maintaining the ecological balance of the region, providing a habitat for various species, and offering recreational and aesthetic value to the residents of Chandigarh. The CJI's concern highlights the urgency of this matter.

If Sukhna Lake is destroyed, it could lead to ecological imbalance, loss of biodiversity, reduced water availability, and a negative impact on the quality of life for Chandigarh residents. It could also affect the city's image and tourism.

Collaborative actions include stricter enforcement of environmental regulations, community participation in conservation efforts, sustainable urban planning, and increased awareness campaigns to educate citizens about the importance of preserving the lake.

The deterioration of Sukhna Lake impacts the quality of the environment and the well-being of citizens. A healthy environment is integral to the Right to Life under Article 21. Therefore, the court's intervention is aimed at protecting this fundamental right.

The Environment Protection Act, 1986 provides a legal framework for protecting and improving the environment. It can be used to implement regulations and take action against activities that contribute to the degradation of Sukhna Lake.

A common misconception might be that the lake's degradation is solely due to natural causes like siltation. While siltation is a factor, human activities such as construction in the catchment area and pollution also significantly contribute to the problem.