Lucknow — In a significant boost to environmental efforts under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board (UPPCB) has reported a 68.8% improvement in water quality across the state’s rivers and water bodies compared to 2023. The improvement is attributed to intensified pollution control measures, effective monitoring, and the efficient functioning of sewage treatment infrastructure.
Clean Rivers, Stronger Policies
According to the latest report by UPPCB, the efforts to rejuvenate key rivers such as the Ganga, Yamuna, and Gomti, along with several smaller water bodies, have yielded remarkable results. Out of 176 water quality testing locations in 2024, 120 sites showed significant improvements in water purity, reflecting the success of ongoing water sanitation and purification campaigns.
Effective STP Operations Backed by Strict Monitoring
As of April 2025, 152 Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) have been established across the state under the Namami Gange project, of which 141 are operational, and 126 are meeting national environmental standards. The remaining are either under inspection or undergoing capacity enhancement.
However, 15 STPs are still not functioning at optimal levels and are being closely monitored. Six STPs are currently under testing.
To ensure compliance, UPPCB has imposed an environmental fine of ₹11.79 crore on defaulting STPs between October 2022 and April 2025. Despite this, only ₹7.30 lakh has been recovered so far. The Board is now focusing on making penalty recovery mechanisms more efficient.
State Government’s Focus on Sustainability
CM Yogi Adityanath has prioritized water conservation and pollution control as key governance issues. His administration has strengthened the implementation of national projects like Namami Gange and Swachh Bharat Mission while also introducing stricter regulations on industrial effluents.
Speaking on the report, a senior UPPCB official said, “This achievement represents a step forward in the state’s commitment to environmental protection. The improvement in water quality is a testament to coordinated efforts between departments, strict monitoring, and public awareness.”
Challenges Remain, but Momentum Grows
Despite the substantial progress, the UPPCB acknowledges that certain regions still face water pollution challenges. To address these, the state government, in collaboration with local administrations, continues to focus on expanding treatment capacity, enforcing environmental compliance, and raising awareness about water conservation.
The report stands as a promising indicator of Uttar Pradesh’s commitment to sustainable development and environmental stewardship, highlighting how strategic interventions can lead to tangible ecological improvements.
