Cloud-Seeding Trial in Delhi Deemed Ineffective for Pollution Control
The Delhi government’s recent cloud-seeding trials resulted in negligible rainfall and a marginal, possibly coincidental, dip in air pollution, according to their report. However, leading meteorologists and scientists argue that the conditions in Delhi—especially during winter—are unsuitable for effective cloud seeding. They emphasize that the minimal precipitation achieved would not substantially improve air quality and may even worsen pollution. Experts unanimously agree that artificial rain is not a viable, long-term solution; addressing emission sources, especially vehicular pollution, remains essential.
The Delhi government conducted cloud-seeding experiments in late October, claiming slight rainfall in Noida and Greater Noida and a minor reduction in air pollution afterward. However, scientists, including meteorologist Gufran Beig and experts from the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, strongly dispute these claims. They highlight that Delhi’s atmospheric conditions during winter—characterized by dry layers between cloud layers and a lack of suitable clouds with adequate liquid water—make effective cloud seeding nearly impossible. Even if rain occurs, it is often too light to wash away pollutants, and drizzle can actually trap and multiply pollution particles rather than clear them. Thorough research, including controlled experiments by Thara Prabhakaran, shows that while cloud seeding can enhance rainfall by about 18% under ideal conditions, Delhi’s environment is far from ideal. Data from the India Meteorological Department also contradicts the government’s reports of significant rainfall. Experts such as Sachin Ghude stress that only heavy, widespread rain can temporarily improve air quality, and since pollution sources extend beyond Delhi, local interventions like artificial rain are insufficient. The consensus among scientists is clear: long-term, meaningful improvements in Delhi’s air quality require comprehensive emission control strategies, especially targeting vehicular sources, rather than relying on unproven technological fixes like cloud seeding.
