Delhi’s First Cloud-Seeding Trial Begins Amid Persistent Smog
Delhi has launched its first cloud-seeding trial using aircraft dispersing silver iodide and sodium chloride over northern and central zones. The operation aims to combat severe winter smog by inducing artificial rainfall, but no rain occurred due to low humidity. The experiment is part of Delhi’s broader pollution control strategy, with further trials planned based on favorable weather conditions.
Delhi conducted its inaugural cloud-seeding trial as a pioneering step to mitigate the capital's severe winter smog and improve air quality. Aircraft from Kanpur released silver iodide and sodium chloride particles over Burari and Karol Bagh to stimulate precipitation by accelerating condensation in moisture-laden clouds. Despite the attempt, rainfall was not induced because atmospheric moisture was below 20%, whereas effective cloud seeding generally requires around 50% humidity. The trial follows a preparatory test flight last week and is framed within the Delhi government's pollution-control initiative, supported by officials including Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa, who highlighted cloud seeding's necessity for the city. The method relies on dispersing fine particles into existing clouds rather than creating rain from scratch, with aircraft-based cloud seeding being the technique employed here. Despite the operation, Delhi’s air quality remains very poor, with several key areas showing dangerous pollution levels and the GRAP Stage 2 action plan still in force. The government plans additional trials contingent on favorable humidity and wind, hoping success could enable broader weather interventions to tackle pollution in northern India.
