Gomti River faces environmental crisis from water hyacinth

The Gomti River in Lucknow is suffering from severe pollution problems due to excessive growth of water hyacinth. This plant creates a dense "green carpet" near Kudia Ghat, which is causing oxygen levels in the water to drop rapidly. Experts say this situation endangers aquatic life and affects the river's overall ecosystem. Work to remove the weeds will begin on March 22, with support from the Ecological Task Force. This team, part of the National Mission for Clean Ganga, has been organized to tackle the environmental crisis affecting the Gomti. Venkatesh Dutta, an environmentalist, expressed his concern over the alarming accumulation of these water weeds, highlighting their negative impact on river health. The weeds not only reduce water quality but also pose health risks to residents who rely on the river water. They absorb nutrients and oxygen, leading to a decline in aquatic life and potentially causing health hazards for people. Additionally, boatmen and tourists have been affected as the dense growth of weeds limits boat access. Environmental advocates like Ranjit Singh blame local authorities for failing to manage pollution effectively. He urges immediate action to protect the river and its ecosystem. Meanwhile, municipal commissioner Inderjit Singh acknowledged that the recent changes in the Gomti barrage have contributed to the weed problem and promised cooperation to clean the river. An irrigation department official noted that efforts to normalize water flow are underway.