Lucknow's FIRST bio-diversity park to come up in Gomti Nagar | Details

The Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) is set to build the city’s first biodiversity park in Gomti Nagar. Spread across 75 acres of reclaimed green belt land, once leased to the Sahara Group, the Gomti Biodiversity Park will breathe new life into a long-neglected stretch. It is envisioned as a vibrant ecological and public space, backed by a self-sustaining ecosystem.

The first phase of development, covering 25 acres from Dayal Paradise Crossing to Gate No. 5 of Janeshwar Mishra Park, will kick off later this month with an estimated budget of ₹14 crore. LDA officials confirmed that the executing agency has already been finalised through a competitive tendering method.

Encroachment removal and site clearing are already underway, according to LDA authorities. The selected area was previously leased to the Sahara Group but lay neglected and cluttered with garbage dumps.

Modelled on the lines of Delhi's acclaimed Yamuna Biodiversity Park, Gomti Biodiversity Park is being designed to promote native flora and fauna. It will also double as a major eco-tourism and educational hub, especially for children and tourists. The park’s layout will include a butterfly garden, medicinal and fruit orchards, and a large water body to attract both native and migratory bird species.

LDA Vice-Chairperson Prathamesh Kumar stated, “Landscaping will involve native grasses, shrubs and trees to replicate natural habitats and ensure year-round food availability for birds, insects and small animals". He further added, “We want to create a self-sustaining ecosystem right in the heart of the city”.

As per current plans, the initial phase will include:

• Construction of a boundary wall and main entrance

• Office block and designated parking area

• Children’s play zone and walking trails

• Watchtower for birdwatchers and researchers

In addition to biodiversity enhancement, the park will serve as a conservation site for rare and endangered plant species found in the Gomti River basin. These species, some of which are on the verge of extinction, will be preserved within the park’s secure, dedicated zones.

To engage younger generations and promote environmental awareness, the LDA will also set up a Natural Interpretation Centre (NIC). Staffed by trained field biologists, the NIC will host guided tours, workshops, and educational sessions for students and nature enthusiasts. Officials believe this interactive component will help embed ecological literacy into the city's urban culture.

The Gomti Biodiversity Park is being positioned as a cornerstone in Lucknow’s efforts to build a more sustainable and liveable city. If executed as planned, the park could significantly improve the city’s ecological balance while providing a much-needed green space for recreation and environmental education. It also has the potential to become a model for integrating biodiversity conservation into city planning.

On the other hand, if the project faces delays or is not fully realised, Lucknow risks losing a rare opportunity to reclaim and transform neglected land into a thriving ecological asset. Without such interventions, urban sprawl may continue to erode green spaces, worsening pollution levels and reducing the city’s capacity to support native flora and fauna.