Children’s park at Rimbi nears completion through mass ‘Shram Daan’

KUSH HANG LEEWANG

GEYZING, : A massive wave of voluntary participation under the 'Shram Daan' initiative is propelling the construction of a children’s park near Rimbi river bank in West Sikkim.

Spearheaded by Rimbi Gram Panchayat Unit (GPU) in Yuksam-Tashiding constituency, under the leadership of panchayat president Mangal Rai, the initiative has gained support from individuals, contractors, self-help groups (SHGs) and various social and religious organizations.

Drawing inspiration from the 'Shram Daan' concept popularized by Dharan mayor Harka Sampang in Nepal, the Rimbi GPU launched this community-driven project without seeking any government funding. Instead, the mission relies entirely on voluntary labour and donations to create a recreational space for children and boost local tourism.

So far, 75% of the first phase of the construction has been completed. As per Mangal Rai, a total of 17,768 individuals have voluntarily contributed labour to the cause.  

“The initial phase was quite challenging,” said Rai. “People were sceptical. Some even discouraged us, thinking such a large project couldn't be done without government funds. But through perseverance, community coordination, and consistent voluntary labour, we have managed to prove otherwise.”

The estimated total cost of the project is around Rs. 2 crore. According to Rai, generous contractors and NGOs have provided essential construction materials and financial aid. The GPU aims to complete the second phase and inaugurate the park by October or November, aligning with the tourist season to potentially generate revenue for the local community.

Rai, who has served as a panchayat member three times, believes that the park will serve not only as a recreational facility but also as a symbol of collective power and community-led development.

“This initiative shows that meaningful change is possible through unity and shared responsibility. It’s a message to our people that we don’t always have to rely on the government. We have the capacity to build our future,” he said.

On Saturday, the West Sikkim unit of Akhil Kirat Rai Sangh (AKRS) also participated in the Shram Daan. Led by president Ram Chandra Rai, the executive members and volunteers from AKRS actively contributed to the day’s work. Rai also thanked the State government for its “non-interfering approach” and moral support, which he says has been vital in letting the grassroots movement take root.

As construction continues into its final phase, the Rimbi GPU remains hopeful that the spirit of Shram Daan will keep thriving, leaving behind not just a children's park, but a powerful precedent for community-driven development in Sikkim.