Lucknow To Get 300-Acre Gomti River Forest With Nature Trails And Open Green Spaces

Lucknow is set to get a 300-acre Gomti riverside forest area, planned as a major green zone. The project, estimated at around Rs 150 crore, aims to create new urban greenery. It will also provide a safe natural habitat for aquatic species and birds. Officials state that the area will support nature-based tourism, recreation and environmental conservation together.

Planning has begun for this large Gomti River Forest stretch from Pipraghat to the Sarasawan area, located before Shaheed Path. Authorities say the site will combine nature walks, leisure zones and conservation spaces. The focus remains on maintaining the river’s natural character. The initiative is being developed as a key public space for families and visitors.

Gomti River Forest to keep natural river flow intact

A core feature of the Gomti River Forest plan is the decision not to disturb natural systems. The flow, water spread and ecological cycle of the Gomti will remain as they are. No boundary wall or grill will be built towards the river side. This will allow water to move freely in and out, supporting aquatic life and seasonal changes.

To help keep the river and adjoining water bodies clean, several aquatic plants will be introduced. These will include lemon grass, water lily, lotus and other water plants. Experts say such species support natural filtration of water. Separate arrangements are also planned to protect fish, turtles and other aquatic organisms within the project limits.

Public access in Gomti River Forest through elevated pathways

The plan provides that no regular roads or ground-level tracks will be laid inside the forest. Instead, elevated pathways and jogging tracks will be built about six feet above the ground. Visitors will be able to walk, jog and view the river and forest from these paths. This design is considered modern and environment friendly for urban forests by environmental specialists.

Because movement takes place above ground level, the soil and undergrowth will face minimal disturbance. The natural habitat of small animals, insects and ground vegetation will remain largely untouched. People will still get close views of the river landscape. The elevated structure aims to balance human access with protection of sensitive areas below.

Tree cover and biodiversity focus in Gomti River Forest

Plantation in the Gomti River Forest will not focus only on decorative species. Officials plan a wide mix of fruit-bearing and shade-giving trees that support birds and biodiversity. Mango, guava, litchi, custard apple, gular, peepal, banyan, jamun and jackfruit trees will be planted. These species will offer food to many bird and animal species.

Along with fruit trees, flowering and seasonal plants will also be grown across the stretch. Species proposed include amaltas, gulmohar, arjun, jarul and basant tota, besides other seasonal flowering plants. The aim is to keep the landscape colourful and visually attractive all through the year. This mix is expected to support both ecological balance and public appeal.

Tourism facilities and infrastructure in Gomti River Forest

Officials state that the Gomti River Forest will be developed as a family destination, not just a green belt. The design includes an attractive entry plaza, gazebos, food courts, seating platforms and toilet blocks. Safety grills will be installed around the outer sides of the forest. However, the riverfront edge will remain open, in line with the natural theme of the project area.

Several public amenities and supporting works have been listed for development within the project. These include boundary grill and chain link fencing, parking areas, entry gates, platforms with benches and a jogging track. There will also be an open gym, children’s play zones, four toilet blocks, two sets of office, bath and store rooms, and improved lighting with high mast and main pole lights.

Engineering and leisure structures will add further facilities across the Gomti River Forest. Plans cover a retaining wall, an entry plaza, multimedia, light and sound show, a water body and gazebos. A control room is proposed. An elevated CC road of 3,500 metres with stainless steel railings on both sides is planned, along with an open-air theatre, pavilion, HT line, transformer, canteen and food court.

On the administrative side, the project is being led by the Lucknow Development Authority. LDA Vice-Chairperson Prathmesh Kumar stated that a detailed plan for developing the 300-acre Gomti River Forest has been prepared. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has supported the project, and the Cantonment Board is providing both land and budget for its execution.

LDA Vice Chairman Prathamesh Kumar said that a plan has been prepared to develop the Gomti River Forest across 300 acres. The project will be developed through the efforts of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. For this, the Cantonment Board is also providing land and budget support. In the coming days, it will become a very beautiful destination. It will have a completely natural look.

Officials emphasise that the Gomti River Forest is designed to appear as a natural landscape, despite added facilities. The project brings together ecology, leisure and urban design, while keeping the river’s original flow intact. Once completed, the area is expected to serve as a major green, recreational and conservation space for Lucknow residents and visitors.