Delhi Cloud Seeding: 2 Sorties, 16 Flares – What Happened, What Didn’t & the Real Cost
Delhi’s recent cloud seeding experiment to tackle toxic air pollution has stirred debate. Over two days, two aircraft sorties and 16 flares were deployed to trigger artificial rain—but did it succeed? Here’s a detailed breakdown of the outcomes, costs, and lingering questions.
The Cloud Seeding Experiment: Key Details
The Delhi government partnered with IIT-Kanpur to execute this project on November 20–21, 2023, aiming to wash away pollutants via induced rainfall.
How It Worked
- 2 Aircraft Sorties: A Cessna plane targeted moisture-rich clouds over Delhi.
- 16 Flares Fired: Containing salts like silver iodide, these flares aimed to boost condensation and rain formation.
Officials claimed “moderate success,” with light drizzle in patches. However, widespread rainfall—and pollution relief—didn’t materialize.
What Didn’t Happen? Key Shortcomings
- No Major Rainfall: Only scattered, light showers occurred—insufficient to lower AQI significantly.
- Minimal Pollution Impact: PM2.5/PM10 levels barely dropped, as brief drizzle can’t replace sustained rain.
- Uncertain Scientific Validation: Cloud seeding’s efficacy is debated; success hinges on ideal weather, which Delhi lacked.
The Hidden Costs: Financial & Strategic Concerns
- ₹1 Crore per Flight: Each sortie cost ~₹1 crore, excluding R&D and logistics.
- Limited Feasibility: Cloud seeding is expensive, weather-dependent, and offers short-term relief at best.
- Missed Opportunities: Critics argue funds could’ve boosted electric vehicles, green zones, or farm-fire alternatives.
Expert Reactions: Support vs. Skepticism
- Proponents call it an innovative emergency measure during peak pollution.
- Opponents dismiss it as a costly gimmick, stressing systemic fixes like stubble burning bans and industrial controls.
Lessons & the Path Ahead
- Temporary vs. Permanent Solutions: Artificial rain can’t replace long-term emission cuts.
- More Research Needed: India must study cloud seeding’s viability in local climates.
- Public Clarity Matters: Managing expectations is crucial—this isn’t a magic bullet.
Final Verdict: Symbolic Step or Wasteful Spend?
While Delhi’s cloud seeding showcased urgency, its high cost and fleeting results highlight the need for sustainable strategies. For now, the focus should shift to ground-level reforms—not just silver iodide in the sky.
What’s your take? Should Delhi refine cloud seeding or invest elsewhere? Comment below!
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