New Delhi: In a historic first, the Delhi government, in collaboration with IIT Kanpur, has completed its cloud seeding process aimed at triggering artificial rain to help reduce the city’s worsening air pollution levels.
According to officials, the initial phase of the operation was carried out successfully on Tuesday across Burari, Mayur Vihar, and Karol Bagh, with rain expected in the next few hours if atmospheric conditions remain favourable. Authorities have also kept open the possibility of another round later in the evening, depending on cloud formation and humidity levels.
🌧️ Delhi’s Cloud Seeding Mission
The specially equipped aircraft took off from Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, carrying cloud-seeding flares containing silver iodide and salt-based compounds. These materials were dispersed into moisture-laden clouds, helping water droplets form and accelerate precipitation — a process known as cloud seeding.
The technology, widely used in countries like the United States, China, and the UAE, is being tested in Delhi for the first time to see if artificial rainfall can effectively bring down particulate pollution levels.
🗣️ Government’s Statement
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta expressed optimism about the trial, calling it a major scientific step in the fight against air pollution.
“We’re constantly discussing the issue of artificial rain, as we’re taking countless steps to address Delhi’s pollution. We’ve given cloud seeding a trial, hoping it can solve Delhi’s pollution problem,” Gupta said.
She added that if the experiment succeeds, it could become a game-changing solution for Delhi’s residents, who suffer from hazardous air quality every winter.
“This is an experiment. If successful, it will be very important for Delhiites. This is new for all of us, but I pray that this trial is successful and that Delhi benefits from it,” she added.
🌫️ Why It Matters
Delhi’s air quality has remained in the “severe” category for several consecutive days, with PM2.5 levels exceeding safe limits by more than 10 times in some areas. The city has already implemented measures such as the odd-even traffic rule, school closures, and construction bans, but pollution continues to persist.
If successful, artificial rain through cloud seeding could become a new tool in India’s environmental management strategy, providing short-term relief during periods of acute smog.
Originally published on newsworldstime.com.
Originally published on 24×7-news.com.
