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River Restoration: Farmers Urged to Donate Land for Gomti Flow
8 May
Summary
- Pilibhit administration seeks voluntary land donation from farmers.
- Campaign aims to restore Gomti river's natural flow after 1952 error.
- Experts to study choked artesian wells in Phulhar Lake.
Pilibhit administration initiated a campaign on Thursday, May 8, 2026, urging farmers in 16 village panchayats to voluntarily donate land. The goal is to restore the natural flow of the Gomti River along its 47.2-km stretch within the district. This effort tackles a historical anomaly dating back to 1952, when revenue records mistakenly listed the river course under farmers' names.
Currently, farming along the river channel obstructs its natural course, leading to drying during summer. To maintain water levels, the administration artificially supplements Phulhar Lake via solar pumps and canal water. Experts from the Indian Institute of Hydrology and Indian Institute of Remote Sensing will investigate the choked artesian wells feeding the lake.
Officials are exploring compensatory land exchanges to encourage farmer cooperation. Earlier this week, district officials participated in manual excavation of the river channel to promote voluntary clearing of encroachments. This campaign signifies a dedicated move towards reviving the river's ecological health.
