LUCKNOW, May 19 -- The Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) has prepared and submitted the detailed project report (DPR) for developing an around-300-acre Gomti River Forest along the Pipra Ghat-Shaheed Path, officials said. The move is aimed at strengthening Lucknow's shrinking green cover amid rapid urbanisation. The project is expected to become one of the largest green spaces in the state capital and is said to be only slightly smaller than Janeshwar Mishra Park in terms of area. The project has gained significance as Lucknow continues to witness rising concerns over environmental degradation, increasing temperatures and declining green spaces. Officials believe the proposed Gomti River Forest could emerge as one of the city's largest environmental assets. Officials said the proposed forest will come up to the right of the Pipra Ghat area extending towards the Shaheed Path stretch. The project will sport a wide range of plant and tree species to improve environmental conditions and strengthen biodiversity. LDA chief engineer Manvendra Kumar Singh said the authority plans to develop the project over nearly 300 acres with an estimated expenditure of around Rs 150 crore. "The required funding for the project will be made available after the necessary approvals are completed," he said. Officials said the identified land belongs to the Cantonment Board, which will also provide financial support for the execution of the project. Officials added that once the project receives approval, LDA will begin the tendering process and complete the required formalities before starting construction work. Authorities also see the initiative as an effort to protect vacant land from unplanned development while creating a long-term environmental asset for the city....