LMC initiates Gomti River cleanup in Lucknow

Lucknow Municipal Corporation (LMC) has started a campaign to remove water hyacinth from the Gomti River. This effort comes after concerns were raised about the river's poor oxygen levels due to excessive growth of the floating plants. On March 18, a report highlighted how the river, important to Lucknow, looked like it was choking under a thick layer of green plants near Kudiya Ghat. In response, LMC officials quickly began using heavy machinery and boats to clear the hyacinth. They plan to work from Kudiya Ghat toward the riverfront and beyond. LMC official Manoj Prabhat explained that the area had been rapidly affected. The growth of water hyacinth can double in size within a day if not addressed. The river's changes in flow from stagnant conditions allowed more hyacinth to be washed downstream. In addition to this cleanup drive, municipal commissioner Inderjit Singh mentioned plans for a long-term solution. This includes redirecting sewage to treatment plants instead of letting it flow directly into the river. Mesh barriers will also be installed to catch floating waste. Singh emphasized that the state government is paying close attention to this issue. They are considering larger measures to combat pollution in the Gomti River. An LMC official noted that untreated sewage is a major cause of the water quality problems, as it encourages hyacinth growth and reduces oxygen levels, harming aquatic life. LMC has committed to continuing the cleanup effort in phases and will regularly monitor the situation to avoid future problems.