The Gomti River, a vital resource for Lucknow, India, faces an environmental crisis as excessive water hyacinth growth near Kudia Ghat rapidly depletes oxygen levels. This 'green carpet' of weeds poses a severe threat to aquatic life, with oxygen levels potentially dropping to zero, endangering fish and other organisms.
The Ecological Task Force, under the National Mission for Clean Ganga (Namami Gange Project), will begin removing the weeds starting March 22. The task force includes 40 soldiers from the Territorial Army and a battalion of the Gorkha Regiment. Six boats have been hired to aid in the removal process.
Environmentalists warn that the weeds not only deplete oxygen but also absorb nutrients, block sunlight, and obstruct water flow, increasing flood risk. The Lucknow Municipal Corporation plans to cooperate in cleaning efforts and explore using the removed weeds as organic manure. The irrigation department anticipates completing work on the Gomti barrage soon, which should normalize water flow.