Why in news?
The Government of Uttar Pradesh launched the Gomti Revival Mission in mid‑October 2025. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced that the initiative will intercept and treat more than 95 % of sewage, remove encroachments and restore the ecological health of the river, which has become heavily polluted.
Background
The Gomti River is a tributary of the Ganga. It rises from the Gomat Taal (also called Fulhaar Jheel) near Madhotanda in Uttar Pradesh’s Pilibhit district at an elevation of about 185 metres. The river flows roughly 940 kilometres south‑east through Sitapur, Lucknow, Barabanki, Sultanpur and Jaunpur before joining the Ganga at Kaithi in Ghazipur district. The catchment spans about 29,865 km² and is characterised by thick Quaternary alluvial sediments, with a flat gradient that makes the river sluggish except during the monsoon. The Sai River is its major tributary, draining nearly 43 % of the basin. Settlements like Sitapur, Lucknow, Sultanpur and Jaunpur depend on the Gomti for water supply and cultural activities.
Key components of the rejuvenation mission
- Sewage interception and treatment: The mission plans to construct new sewage treatment plants and upgrade existing ones so that more than 95 % of urban wastewater is treated before entering the river. Pumping stations will divert sewage to treatment facilities, reducing organic and chemical pollution.
- Wetland creation and riverbank restoration: Authorities will develop wetlands along the river to naturally purify water, recharge groundwater and provide habitat for birds and aquatic life. Riverbanks will be stabilised with native vegetation, and floodplains will be restored to enhance resilience against floods.
- Removal of encroachments and invasive species: Illegal structures along the river will be cleared to reopen natural channels. Water hyacinth and other invasive plants will be removed to improve water flow and oxygen levels.
- Community engagement and governance: The mission encourages public participation through cleanliness drives, awareness programmes and citizen monitoring. A high‑level committee chaired by the Chief Minister will review progress monthly, coordinating departments responsible for urban development, irrigation and pollution control.
- Broader significance: Reviving the Gomti will restore its ecological and cultural importance, support fisheries and agriculture, improve drinking‑water quality and provide recreational spaces. Success in Gomti’s revival could serve as a model for rejuvenating other rivers in northern India.
Sources: Central Water Commission; The Statesman