Delhi Plans Artificial Rain to Fight Pollution

The Delhi government is contemplating the implementation of cloud seeding, a technique aimed at inducing artificial rainfall to cleanse the atmosphere.

Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa announced that the proposal would be presented to the Cabinet in the coming days.The Indian ExpressThe cloud seeding initiative is part of a broader strategy to combat the city’s deteriorating air quality, which has reached hazardous levels in recent months. The Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) has reported that the Air Quality Index (AQI) has consistently exceeded 400, indicating a severe health risk to residents.Cloud seeding involves dispersing substances such as silver iodide into clouds to encourage precipitation. The Delhi government plans to conduct a trial during the peak summer months on the outskirts of the city, where conditions are more conducive for the process.

However, the proposal requires approval from multiple agencies, including the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, Ministry of Defence, and Ministry of Home Affairs.In parallel, the Environment Department is preparing to launch an updated pollution action plan next week. The plan emphasizes the use of technology and real-time monitoring to address key pollution sources. It includes the establishment of a central dashboard to track pollution levels and compliance with DPCC norms, as well as the installation of cameras at major pollution hotspots to support enforcement.Despite the government’s efforts, experts have expressed skepticism about the efficacy of cloud seeding in Delhi’s context.

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The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has stated that cloud seeding may not be a feasible solution due to insufficient moisture in the air and the dependency on pre-existing clouds influenced by Western Disturbances. Additionally, concerns about the potential adverse effects of the chemicals used in the process have been raised. The Times of India+2The New Indian Express+2The Week+2The Week+1The Times of India+1Environmentalists argue that while cloud seeding might offer temporary relief, it does not address the root causes of pollution. They advocate for more sustainable measures such as reducing vehicular emissions, controlling industrial pollutants, and enhancing green spaces to improve air quality in the long term.

As Delhi grapples with its air pollution crisis, the proposed cloud seeding trial represents a bold and innovative approach. However, its success will depend on careful planning, rigorous testing, and a comprehensive understanding of the environmental implications. The government’s willingness to explore unconventional solutions underscores the urgency of addressing the city’s air quality challenges.In conclusion, while cloud seeding presents a novel approach to mitigating air pollution, it should be viewed as part of a multifaceted strategy that includes both technological interventions and systemic reforms. Only through a combination of efforts can Delhi hope to achieve sustainable improvements in its air quality.

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Delhi Plans Artificial Rain to Fight Pollution