Delhi is grappling with its annual air pollution crisis, with Air Quality Index (AQI) levels in the “severe plus” category, consistently above 450. In response, Delhi’s Environment Minister Gopal Rai has appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for assistance in deploying cloud seeding a controversial technique to induce artificial rain and potentially reduce pollution levels.
What is Cloud Seeding?
Cloud seeding, also known as artificial rain, involves dispersing substances like silver iodide, potassium iodide, or dry ice into clouds to stimulate precipitation. These particles act as nuclei around which water droplets form, potentially triggering rainfall. The process can be carried out via aircraft, rockets, or ground-based generators.
In theory, the rainfall generated could “wash out” airborne pollutants, including particulate matter, temporarily improving air quality.
Can Cloud Seeding Work in Delhi?
The Delhi government, in collaboration with IIT Kanpur, has explored cloud seeding as an emergency measure. However, the project comes with a high cost approximately ₹1 lakh per square kilometer and several logistical challenges:
- Suitable Weather Conditions: For cloud seeding to work, there must be moisture-laden clouds, which Delhi’s current weather may lack.
- Effectiveness: While cloud seeding has been shown to increase precipitation modestly, its direct impact on air quality remains uncertain. The technique is unlikely to resolve long-term pollution issues.
- Environmental Concerns: Introducing chemicals into the atmosphere raises questions about potential ecological consequences, including soil and water contamination.
Short-Term Fix for a Long-Term Problem
Experts emphasize that while cloud seeding might offer temporary relief, it is not a sustainable solution. Tackling Delhi’s severe pollution requires addressing root causes such as:
- Reducing emissions from vehicles and industries.
- Managing agricultural stubble burning in nearby states.
- Strengthening enforcement of pollution control measures.
Delhi’s persistent air pollution crisis demands innovative and immediate solutions, but experts caution against relying solely on technological interventions like cloud seeding. A balanced approach that combines emergency measures with systemic reforms will be crucial for ensuring breathable air in the future