Lucknow, July 8 -- Water hyacinth and solid waste have found a way to pollute large stretches of the Gomti seemingly after every clean-up drive. Even on Monday, thick clusters of the invasive plant covered the river's surface near Hanuman Setu.

"The river's natural flow is restricted by temporary dams and earth embankments, turning it into a stagnant water body. Combined with untreated sewage, this accelerates hyacinth growth," said environmental expert Dr. Venkatesh Dutta.

Amid concerns over the river's deteriorating health, divisional commissioner Roshan Jacob has directed officials concerned to take urgent measures to revive the Gomti. Top officials, including LDA vice chairman Prathamesh Kumar and municipal commissioner Gaurav Kumar...