Delhi Conducts First Cloud-Seeding Trial to Induce Artificial Rain

• Delhi carried out its first cloud-seeding trials on Tuesday to tackle severe air pollution. Aircraft from IIT-Kanpur released compounds such as silver iodide and sodium chloride over areas including Burari, Karol Bagh, Mayur Vihar, Bhojpur, and Sadakpur to induce artificial rain.

Objective

The initiative aims to reduce the capital’s worsening air pollution by using artificial rain to settle airborne pollutants. It is part of the Delhi government’s broader winter pollution control strategy.

Trial Details

• The aircraft took off from Kanpur and conducted cloud seeding over multiple parts of Delhi.

• Humidity levels in the clouds were between 15–20% , lower than the ideal 50% needed for rainfall.

• As a result, rainfall did not occur , though officials termed the test a technical success , paving the way for further trials.

• Rain is expected once favorable moisture conditions develop.

Government’s View

• Chief Minister Rekha Gupta called the experiment a “ necessity for Delhi ” and a first-of-its-kind effort to address environmental challenges. She expressed optimism that cloud seeding could become a practical tool to combat recurring winter smog.

What is Cloud Seeding?

• Cloud seeding is a weather modification technique that disperses chemicals such as silver iodide or salt particles into clouds. These particles act as nuclei for moisture condensation, forming ice crystals that lead to rainfall.

Key Facts for Exams

• Purpose: To induce artificial rain and reduce air pollution.

• Method: Aircraft released silver iodide and sodium chloride .

• Humidity Requirement: Minimum 50% for effective rain formation.

• Trial Areas: Burari, Karol Bagh, Bhojpur, Mayur Vihar, Sadakpur.

• Conducted by: IIT-Kanpur in collaboration with the Delhi government .

If successful, cloud seeding could become a regular anti-pollution measure during Delhi’s peak smog season.