Delhi’s Artificial Rain Trial and Silver Iodide Safety Concerns
Delhi conducted its first artificial rain trial using silver iodide to reduce air pollution. Experts confirm silver iodide is insoluble and non-toxic to humans at the levels used, with minimal environmental accumulation. Long-term repeated use may affect aquatic and soil life, but human health risks remain low. Safety protocols and monitoring are recommended to mitigate any potential environmental impacts.
In response to severe air pollution, Delhi carried out an artificial rain trial by dispersing silver iodide flares into clouds on October 28, aiming to induce precipitation and lower pollution levels. Silver iodide, a yellowish, insoluble compound widely used globally for cold cloud seeding, was used in small quantities across the region. Experts highlight that silver iodide does not dissolve easily, does not accumulate significantly in the environment or human body, and is not toxic to humans at these exposure levels. Short-term exposure to silver iodide through inhalation or rainwater is considered harmless. However, there is caution regarding repeated cloud seeding over the same area, which could lead to silver accumulation affecting aquatic life, soil microbes, and plant growth due to disruption in photosynthesis and roots. Humans with preexisting kidney issues or those in frequently seeded areas may require monitoring as their bodies might process silver differently. Global health and environmental authorities, including the WHO and EPA, find post-cloud seeding silver concentrations far below harmful thresholds, supporting the safety of the current protocols. Overall, while human health risks are minimal, ongoing environmental monitoring and cautious application remain important to avoid long-term ecological effects.
