First Cloud Seeding Trial for Delhi’s Air Quality

The Delhi government is preparing for a historic cloud seeding trial, an experimental attempt to induce artificial rain and combat the city’s severe air pollution. The operation is planned for Tuesday, with its execution strictly dependent on suitable weather conditions. A review meeting will be held to evaluate the feasibility, and a specialized aircraft from Kanpur is on standby. This initiative represents a significant part of the government’s strategy to improve air quality during the harsh winter months. The Chief Minister has underscored the importance of this venture, calling it a vital and novel approach to tackling the environmental crisis. The focus is on exploring the potential of cloud seeding to alleviate the extreme pollution levels experienced in Delhi. Meteorological forecasts suggest a promising period for the trial from October 28 to 30, with the India Meteorological Department anticipating the necessary cloud formations. This could lead to Delhi experiencing its first artificial rainfall on October 29. A preceding test flight over the Burari area was successfully completed, testing the aircraft’s seeding systems and operational coordination. Although atmospheric moisture was insufficient for rain during this test, it served as a crucial preparatory step. IIT Kanpur, overseeing the project, confirmed the successful evaluation of its technical aspects. Regulatory bodies have granted the required approvals, and a formal agreement is in place for several cloud seeding trials in northwest Delhi. All preparations for this highly anticipated environmental intervention are now finalized.