Artificial Rain: A Promising Step to Combat Delhi’s Pollution in 2024

Delhi's air pollution crisis has worsened significantly in 2024, with Air Quality Index (AQI) levels persistently in the "severe-plus" category. Amidst this hazardous smog, the Delhi government has renewed its focus on artificial rain through cloud seeding as a short-term solution to tackle the toxic air.

What is Cloud Seeding?

Cloud seeding is a weather modification technique where chemicals like silver iodide, potassium iodide, or dry ice are dispersed into clouds to stimulate rainfall. This artificially induced rain can wash out particulate matter (PM 2.5 and PM 10), dust, and other airborne pollutants, leading to temporary improvement in air quality.

Delhi's Push for Artificial Rain

The Delhi government, led by Environment Minister Gopal Rai, has formally requested the central government for assistance in implementing cloud seeding. Despite repeated appeals since August 2024, no significant action has been taken. Rai emphasized that the cost, estimated at ?1 lakh per square kilometer, could be borne entirely by the Delhi government if approved. The process would be facilitated by institutions like IIT Kanpur, which has experience in similar projects

Challenges and Limitations

While artificial rain offers immediate relief, experts caution that it is not a long-term solution. Factors like:

1. Weather conditions: Cloud seeding requires sufficient cloud moisture, which might not always be present during Delhi’s pollution peaks.
2. Environmental concerns: The long-term impact of chemicals on ecosystems is still debated.
3. Short-lived benefits: Artificial rain clears pollutants temporarily but doesn’t address root causes like industrial emissions, vehicle pollution, and stubble burning

Why is it Urgent Now?

In 2024, Delhi's AQI levels crossed 450, indicating hazardous conditions. Measures like restricting private vehicles and banning trucks have proven insufficient. Cloud seeding could act as a supplementary measure under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), offering some respite while authorities work on sustainable pollution control strategies

Conclusion

Artificial rain might be a viable emergency measure for Delhi's worsening air quality. However, experts stress the need for long-term solutions, including stricter emissions controls, increased green cover, and cleaner energy initiatives. With proper collaboration between state and central governments, cloud seeding could provide the necessary breathing space while more sustainable measures are developed.