In a groundbreaking move to fight the worsening post-Diwali pollution, Delhi is preparing for its first-ever artificial rain experiment through cloud seeding. An aircraft equipped for this operation has taken off from Kanpur toward the national capital, marking a major step in India’s fight against urban air pollution.
The cloud seeding technique involves releasing particles such as silver iodide or salt compounds into moisture-laden clouds to trigger rainfall. This artificial rain is expected to help wash away pollutants suspended in the atmosphere, temporarily improving air quality.
According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 304 on Tuesday afternoon, firmly in the ‘very poor’ category. Several monitoring stations, including Anand Vihar, RK Puram, Siri Fort and Bawana, reported AQI levels above 310, indicating dangerously high pollution levels.
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta called the initiative a crucial and innovative step in tackling the capital air crisis. “Cloud seeding is not just an experiment it’s a necessity for Delhi. We are hopeful that it will offer much-needed relief and guide long-term environmental solutions,” she said.
While experts say cloud seeding can provide short-term improvement, they emphasize that Delhi needs sustained action such as stricter control on vehicular emissions, reducing construction dust, and promoting clean energy to combat its chronic pollution problem effectively.