In a pioneering move to address the persistent air pollution crisis, the Delhi Cabinet has sanctioned a ₹3.21 crore project to conduct five cloud-seeding trials aimed at inducing artificial rain. This initiative, in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur, seeks to explore the viability of artificial precipitation as a method to cleanse the city’s heavily polluted air.
🌧️ Project Overview
The approved project, titled “Technology Demonstration and Evaluation of Cloud Seeding as an Alternative for Delhi NCR,” encompasses:
- Trial Operations: Five cloud-seeding trials, each estimated at ₹55 lakh.
- Setup Costs: A one-time expenditure of ₹66 lakh covering aircraft calibration, chemical storage, and logistical arrangements.
- Total Budget: ₹3.21 crore allocated for the entire project.
IIT Kanpur will oversee the implementation, including planning, aircraft deployment, chemical dispersal, scientific modeling, and operational logistics.
📅 Timeline and Execution
The initial trial is slated for late May or June, contingent upon obtaining necessary clearances from 13 governing agencies, such as the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, Ministry of Defence, Ministry of Home Affairs, and the Airports Authority of India. The trials will target approximately 100 square kilometers, primarily focusing on the outskirts of Delhi.
🌬️ Addressing Delhi’s Pollution Challenge
Delhi’s air quality has been a longstanding concern, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) frequently reaching hazardous levels, especially during winter months. Traditional measures have yielded limited success, prompting the exploration of innovative solutions like cloud seeding.
Cloud seeding involves dispersing substances such as silver iodide into clouds to stimulate rainfall, which can help in settling airborne pollutants and improving air quality.
🧪 Scientific Oversight and Evaluation
Post-trial, comprehensive scientific evaluations will assess the effectiveness and environmental impact of the cloud-seeding operations. These assessments will inform the feasibility of adopting artificial rain as a regular pollution mitigation strategy.
⚠️ Expert Opinions and Considerations
While the initiative marks a significant step, experts caution that artificial rain should not be viewed as a standalone solution. Comprehensive strategies addressing emission sources, industrial regulations, and sustainable urban planning are essential for long-term air quality improvement. WIRED
