Gomti River Pollution to be Assessed Under Swachh Survekshan 2025-26
In a significant development, pollution in and around the Gomti river will be assessed for the first time under the Swachh Survekshan 2025-26 framework. This move brings the river under the national cleanliness review, marking a notable expansion of the survey's scope.
Expanding the Cleanliness Review Framework
Previously, only cities linked to the Ganga river were evaluated under the Swachh Survekshan. The inclusion of the Gomti river has now widened this scope considerably. All cities situated on the banks of the Gomti, including the state capital Lucknow, will be subjected to this comprehensive assessment.
Environment engineer Sanjeev Pradhan provided detailed insights into the survey process. He stated that the assessment will meticulously examine waste discharge points flowing into the Gomti river, as well as the overall cleanliness of its riverbanks. "All pollutants will be thoroughly assessed, and public feedback will account for nearly 50% of the verification process," Pradhan emphasized.
Key Assessment Parameters and Timeline
The Swachh Survekshan 2025-26 will cover a wide range of critical parameters to ensure a holistic evaluation of cleanliness and waste management. The assessment will include:
- Door-to-door waste collection systems
- Segregation of waste at the source
- Efficient waste processing mechanisms
- Scientific disposal methods
Additionally, the review will extend to public toilets, drainage systems, water bodies, and mechanized sanitation systems. Mandatory documentation and third-party verification of Open Defecation Free (ODF) and Garbage Free City (GFC) status will be required as part of the assessment process.
A central team is likely to visit the region after the Holi festival to conduct on-ground inspections and gather necessary data.
Lucknow's Cleanliness Goals and Challenges
For the Lucknow Municipal Corporation, improving its national rank remains a key challenge and priority. The city secured an impressive third position last year in the ‘Swachh Shahar Million Plus' category. Building on this achievement, Lucknow is now aiming to enter the top two positions in the upcoming assessment.
This expanded assessment framework represents a crucial step toward addressing river pollution and enhancing urban cleanliness standards across the Gomti river basin.
