Yogi Adityanath Calls for Ban on Single-Use Plastics at Gomti Utsav 2026

Lucknow, November 15 (Daily Kiran) : Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has declared single-use plastics a serious threat to both the environment and human health. Speaking at the Gomti Utsav 2026 on Sunday, he urged the public to completely avoid using such plastics. He emphasized that while they may offer immediate convenience, they are polluting our rivers and nature, posing a significant risk to our future.

During the event, Adityanath highlighted the capabilities of local artisans, asserting that they can compete with even the largest food companies in the world. He noted that previous administrations had left the state with a “one district, one mafia” model, while his government has introduced initiatives like “one district, one product” and “one district, one cuisine.”

The Chief Minister also presented the “Gomti Gaurav Samman” to notable figures for their contributions in various fields. He expressed concern over modern lifestyles, where family members often isolate themselves with their smartphones, even when together. Events like the Gomti Utsav provide an excellent opportunity for people to reconnect with their families and communities.

He praised the Gomti River, revered as the “Adi Ganga” in the region, calling it the soul of Lucknow. He reminded attendees that great civilizations have flourished along riverbanks, and many of India’s sacred sites are located near rivers.

Adityanath stressed the importance of preserving the Gomti River, which flows clear and pure until it reaches the city, where it faces pollution. The state government is constructing new sewage treatment plants to prevent wastewater from entering the river. He urged the festival committee to launch the event with a commitment to maintaining the river’s purity.

Highlighting the need for environmental protection, he reiterated that the use of single-use plastics should be halted immediately. He condemned the practice of disposing of plastic waste in rivers after religious rituals, calling it a grave sin. Instead, he encouraged the use of cloth or biodegradable bags to prevent littering and ensure the rivers remain unobstructed.

Adityanath suggested that the Gomti Utsav should collaborate with the tourism and culture departments. This would provide a platform for local artisans and traditional cooks, boosting the local economy while allowing people to enjoy authentic cuisine with a guarantee of cleanliness. During the program, several individuals, including Prof. Sunita Mishra and Justice Ranganath Pandey, received the Gomti Gaurav Samman for their outstanding contributions.