Cloud Seeding in delhi
Delhi is set to conduct its first-ever cloud seeding trials to combat air pollution, with operations scheduled primarily in October and November 2025 over northwest Delhi.
Project Details and Timeline
- The first trial is planned between October 7 and 9, 2025, with up to five sorties allowed over the next two months subject to initial outcomes.
- Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa and Chief Minister Rekha Gupta spearheaded the project in collaboration with IIT Kanpur, following approval from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
- A Cessna aircraft operated by IIT Kanpur will conduct the seeding from the Hindon airbase, and strict safety and air-traffic regulations will be followed.
Purpose and Method
- The primary aim is to induce artificial rainfall to reduce hazardous particulate matter and smog during the peak pollution season.
- Cloud seeding involves dispersing substances like silver iodide and salts into moisture-laden clouds, prompting the formation of raindrops and potentially cleansing the air.
Effectiveness and Scope
- Each sortie is expected to cover roughly 100 sq km, focusing on northwest and outer Delhi.
- While studies and global experiences indicate moderate success, experts highlight that the effectiveness depends heavily on existing weather conditions, especially the availability of suitable clouds.
- The cost of this technology demonstration project exceeds Rs 3 crore, with the government evaluating results before scaling up or implementing additional trials.
Criticism and Future Outlook
- Although cloud seeding may offer short-term relief, many environmental experts argue that it cannot substitute for comprehensive pollution control measures and should be viewed as a supplementary step.
- The Delhi government, however, considers it a historic initiative and part of a multifaceted strategy to address pollution, which includes promoting electric vehicles and emission control.
In summary, cloud seeding in Delhi represents a bold experiment aimed at mitigating air pollution through artificial rain during critical months, though its success will depend on scientific, meteorological, and regulatory factors.
Download Pdf
