Lucknow: Chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday said Gomti rejuvenation programme was progressing on a war footing and the river would be cleaned by the end of this year.Addressing a programme in Lucknow Cantonment, the chief minister said Army’s Central Command was extending its full cooperation to state govt to ensure the river’s uninterrupted flow and cleanliness.During the event, Yogi said Uttar Pradesh had embarked on a new journey of security and good governance over the past nine years under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and defence minister Rajnath Singh.After laying the foundation stones of 12 development projects worth more than Rs 100 crore along with Singh, Yogi announced that, with the joint efforts of the state and Centre, the Lucknow Cantt area would be developed as a model city in the country. He expressed confidence that Cantonment Board would emerge as an important centre of development and public amenities, improving the ease of living for military personnel, ex-servicemen and civilians.Highlighting Lucknow’s transformation, Yogi said the city had evolved into a modern smart city while preserving its rich heritage. Referring to the city’s development, he cited projects such as CM GRIDS (Chief Minister Green Road Infrastructure Development Scheme) and Kisan Path and noted that Lucknow had emerged as a centre for BrahMos missile programme. He also mentioned the city’s renowned Chikankari craftsmanship and its recognition by UNESCO as a Creative City of Gastronomy.Yogi further said Uttar Pradesh had overcome challenges of deprivation, disorder and lawlessness and was now contributing as a growth engine for the country. He highlighted the state’s expanding infrastructure network, including expressways, metro systems, rapid rail connectivity, waterways and airports, and their benefits to the local population. Expressing his gratitude to Lucknow MP Rajnath Singh, Yogi said civil works on the second phase of the metro corridor would commence soon.Senior ministers, MPs, MLAs, Army officials and Defence Estates Service officers were present at the event.
