Delhi to Witness Artificial Rain? Know Everything About the First-ever Cloud Seeding Experiment

It is no news that Delhi’s air quality has cemented its position in the ‘very poor’ category of the air quality index (AQI).  Each year, after Diwali, Delhi’s air quality plunges. This year, the AQI crossed the 300 mark. 

The alarming condition has prompted authorities to prepare for the first cloud seeding experiment, in collaboration with IIT Kanpur. The method will trigger artificial rain and combat the worsening smog, allowing citizens to breathe without hesitation. On Tuesday, October 28, the cloud seeding trial was successfully conducted in parts of Delhi. In total, five trails have been planned, starting from 12:30 pm.

The Environment Minister, Manjinder Singh Sirsa, stated that cloud-seeding trials have been conducted in the Khekra, Burari, North Karol Bagh, Mayur Vihar, Sadakpur, and Bhojpur regions of Delhi. People residing in the capital can expect showers anytime before 7 pm.

What Is Cloud Seeding?

Cloud seeding is a scientific technique that involves adding particles, such as silver iodide crystals or salt compounds, to moisture-rich clouds to encourage rainfall. These particles are dispersed by an aircraft that helps smaller droplets transform into larger ones, resulting in rain. Though the method promises to combat pollution and resolve issues concerning water scarcity, its effectiveness depends entirely on the weather and climatic conditions. 

Before the experiment, the Delhi government conducted a trial in the Burari area. However, due to low atmospheric moisture of below 20 percent, showers could not be induced. The required atmospheric moisture for the process is 50 percent. The aircraft flies through designated areas at the required altitude to release the seeding material. If weather conditions are suitable, the national capital may experience showers within 20 to 30 minutes of the operation.

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