31.7.13

Gomti Riverfront Project


The Lucknow Development Authority said the beautification and landscaping project of Gomti riverfront may start by September end. The first phase would cover 1.7 km stretch of the riverbank from Hanuman Setu to Daliganj Pucca pull (bridge).
The appointed consultants ‘Urban Aqua-ANB Consultants-Tech Pro’ consortium have submitted the design and lay-out plan of this stretch to LDA about ten days back. LDA is currently reviewing the cost factor of various items proposed by the consultants for this route.
The beautification of this stretch may require about Rs.300 crore. But before the plan is executed, the mammoth task is to cleanse the river and add more water to make the project feasible. The river is severely contaminated with pollutants which flow in from drains across the city. Irrigation department has been given the responsibility to clean the river and replenish it with the required quantum of water.
The project endorses usage of water-steamers for ferrying passengers to the adjoining areas of the river. The stretch would see deployment of specially designed cruisers in river which can navigate in shallow waters. Experts, however, claimed that piers of old bridges still remain in the river-bed which could be hazardous during the cruise, hence the remnants need to be removed by irrigation department as it cleans the river.
Between Hanuman Setu and Daliganj Bridge, LDA plans to build ‘Awadh Haat’ –an art and exhibition centre which would have stalls showcasing Lucknow’s handicraft. There is also a proposal to erect an iconic structure ‘Lucknow Eye’ of about 70-80 metres on the patterns of London Eye on the riverbank. Near Shaheed Smarak, a hanging bridge would be suspended across the river for pedestrians.
In front of Mankameshwar Mandir, a small pond would be created on the river bank for idol immersion and other rituals. Since idols contain chemicals they pollute the river. The pond would be separated from the river and its water would be released in the river only after thorough cleaning.
A hydrological study of the river was conducted by the Indian Institute of Technology-Roorkee team some time back to review the project’s feasibility. Its draft report came out only a month back which cautioned the consultants not to construct any thing within 250 metre range of both side banks. The consultants accordingly made a few variations in the plan where they had proposed structures within 250 metre range. A senior official said, “A retaining wall would be made along the river stretch to strengthen its banks. Only then, would the above mentioned structures be constructed beyond 250 metre range of the river. A major part of the riverbank would be covered under landscaping which has least impact on the river’s heath.”
The project recommends construction of pathways and cycle-tracks along peripheral embankment. The landscaping work includes theme-based parks, pathways, joggers' park, cycle tracks, water sports, greeneries, promenades, kiosks and other recreational amenities on both sides of the river.

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