The Gomati River: Lifeline of Central Ganga Plain

Gomati is the sixth order groundwater-fed tributary of Ganga River and lifeline of the Central Ganga Plain region. The total catchment area of the Gomati River basin is more than 30,000 km2. It has three regional geomorphic surfaces T0, T1, and T2. The alluvium of the Gomati River basin is very fertile and favorable for all type of seasonal crop, i.e., Rabi, Kharif and Jayad. The monsoon season plays a major role in the water and sediment supply of the Gomati River. Urbanization, industrialization, and deforestation are adversely affecting the qualitative and quantitative changes of the water of the Gomati River. The pollution level of the Gomati River has already reached the critical limit and a water quality does not match with the drinking water standard of WHO. At present, Gomati River is on alarming stage not only for pollution but for its own existence as well and needs proper management and action.