Proof Of Intent Is In The Rain? Delhi Government Considering Artificial Rain To Ease Pollution Woes, Says Report

Delhi government is now talking of deploying a new strategy to address the city's persistent air pollution problem. The plan involves artificial rain, or cloud seeding.

According to NDTV, Environment Minister Gopal Rai discussed the potential of deploying artificial rainfall to enhance air quality during a recent meeting with a team from IIT Kanpur.

If the weather conditions allow, Delhi might witness artificial rainfall on 20-21 November as part of this effort.

What Is Artificial Rain (Cloud Seeding)?

Artificial rain, or cloud seeding, is a weather modification technique that involves introducing substances into clouds to stimulate precipitation.

Typically, particles like silver iodide or potassium iodide are dispersed into clouds using aircraft or helicopters.

These particles act as nuclei around which water droplets form, leading to the eventual development of raindrops.

The success of cloud seeding depends on specific meteorological conditions, such as the presence of moisture-laden clouds and suitable wind patterns.

Air Quality Concerns in Delhi

Currently, Delhi is grappling with a hazardous Air Quality Index (AQI) of 670, posing significant health risks.

High levels of pollutants, including fine particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and others, are exceeding safe limits.

This move is part of the various measures the AAP government is trying to address air pollution, such as the odd-even vehicle scheme, school closures for in-person classes, and following Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP).