Which River is Known as the Lifeline of Lucknow?

Rivers have always played a central role in the growth of cities and civilizations. They provide water for drinking, farming, transport, and daily life, while also shaping culture and traditions. Many great cities around the world are built on the banks of rivers, and Lucknow is no exception. The city’s heart and history are closely tied to one such river, often described as its lifeline.

Lifeline of Lucknow

The Gomti River is known as the Lifeline of Lucknow because it flows through the heart of the city and provides water for drinking, irrigation and daily use. It plays an important role in the lives of the people of Lucknow. The river also adds beauty to the city and is connected to its culture and history.

Other Names of the Gomti River

The Gomti River is not only called by this name. People also know it as Gumti and Gomati in different parts of Uttar Pradesh. These names are used locally and all refer to the same river. These different names show the cultural diversity and local traditions linked with the river and how deeply people are connected to it.

A Special Tributary of the Ganga River

Unlike many other rivers that join the Ganga, the Gomti River does not begin in the Himalayas. Instead, it is fed by both rainwater and groundwater. This makes it different from other Ganga tributaries in northern India, which are mostly snow-fed. Its unique water sources help support farming, wildlife and daily needs throughout its long journey.

Origin and Course of the Gomti River

The Gomti River begins from Gomat Taal, also called Fulhaar Jheel, located near Madho Tanda in the Pilibhit district of Uttar Pradesh. From there, it flows southwards, passing through several important cities and districts. The river travels across fertile plains, collecting water from smaller rivers and drains, and finally joins the Ganga River near a place called Saidpur.

Size and Basin of the Gomti River

The Gomti River is about 900 kilometers long, making it a major river in Uttar Pradesh. It drains a large area of about 18,750 square kilometers. This wide basin includes many towns, villages, farms and forests. The river’s large size and drainage area mean it supports millions of people and their daily lives, especially in agriculture and drinking water supply.

Important Tributaries

Some important tributaries that join the Gomti are:

• Sai River
• Chowka River
• Kathina River
• Saryu River

Cities Along the Gomti River

Major Cities located on the banks of the Gomti River include:

• Lucknow
• Sultanpur
• Jaunpur
• Lakhimpur Kheri

Pollution Problems with the Gomti River

The Gomti River faces many pollution issues.

It gets dirty as it travels through highly populated areas. The main reasons for pollution are:

• Industrial waste
• Dirty water from sugar factories and distilleries
• Sewage and household waste

Many smaller drains like the Kukrail Drainage also carry waste into the river. This has harmed the river’s health and the life inside it.

In 2008, the government laid the foundation stone for a big sewage treatment plant near Bharwara, which could treat 345 million litres of dirty water daily. It was said to be the largest plant in Asia.

However, by 2014, the plant was working at just 10% of its capacity and much of the untreated waste still went into the river.