An interpretation Centre dedicated to the story of Chandigarh’s prime tourist spot-Sukhna Lake was opened on Wednesday at the man-made water body.
The sculptural Pump House of the Sukhna Lake was recently repaired and restored and an interpretation Centre dedicated to the Sukhna Lake has now been established in this landmark structure of the Lake.
The display at the Pump House is an interesting mix of vintage pictures, drawings and sketches to highlight the thought that went behind each element for the creation of Sukhna Lake. The exhibits attempt to capture the essence of the lake in around 30 panels starting from the creators of the lake to its lesser known components like the light fixtures and entrance gate.
Manoj Parida, UT Adviser to the Administrator inaugurated this Centre to commemorate the 52nd death anniversary of architect Pierre Jeanneret, who pursued a progressive architectural philosophy along with his cousin French architect Le Corbusier to design Chandigarh.
Notably, Sukhna Lake having an area of three sq km is developed at the foothills of the Shivalik Hills and forms part of the Capitol Parc designed by Le Corbusier. The rainfed lake was created in 1958 by damning the Sukhna Choe, a seasonal stream coming down from the Sukhna Hills and was created as a gift to the citizens of Chandigarh for enjoyment of peace and tranquility.
The city planners were stated to be deeply attached to the Lake. So much so that the ashes of architect Pierre Jeanneret, who had assisted Le Corbusier on Chandigarh project, were immersed in the Lake in 1970s at his niece’s request.
The proposal for setting up the Interpretation Centre was mooted by Deepika Gandhi, Director Le Corbusier Centre in May this year on the various issues that need to be addressed at the Sukhna Lake and its precincts.
“The Pump House structure is another example of the innovation and creativity of Corbusier and Pierre Jeanneret which transformed what could have been an eyesore to merely pump water to the Golf course and greens of the city into a sensitively designed circular brick structure with the sculptural ramp to the roof adding lyricism against the backdrop of the Sukhna and Shivaliks beyond,” Deepika Gandhi, Director Le Corbusier Centre said.
The display of panels was a challenge due to the circular shape and small size of the room, she said.
“During the restoration, a skylight which was closed some years back was opened up to let in natural light in the room. The ventilators were very interestingly designed and were the starting point for conception of the display of exhibits,” she said.
Speaking on the occasion, the Adviser to the Administrator expressed his pleasure at another successful venture at preserving the heritage of the city and hoped that the Centre shall become another landmark in the city and sensitise citizens and tourists about the Sukhna as an important part of the city’s legacy.
