Delhi’s Artificial Rain Hopes Dashed as Minister Cites Missing Clouds
With Delhi’s air quality index (AQI) stuck in the ‘very poor’ zone, desperate calls for artificial rain via cloud seeding have hit a wall. Environment Minister Gopal Rai bluntly dismissed the proposal, stating, “When the clouds will come, then we will see,” underscoring the lack of weather conditions needed for the technique.
Why Cloud Seeding Isn’t an Option—For Now
Artificial rain involves injecting clouds with salts or silver iodide to trigger rainfall, a method tried in China and the UAE. However, experts note three deal-breakers for Delhi:
1. No clouds: Current clear skies and dry weather make seeding impossible.
2. Temporary relief: Rain only settles pollutants briefly, without tackling sources.
3. High cost: Deploying planes or drones for seeding is expensive and logistically complex.
Delhi’s Air Pollution Crisis: Root Causes
Winter worsens the capital’s toxic air due to:
– Stubble burning (contributes 25–30% of PM2.5).
– Traffic emissions (28% of PM2.5).
– Construction dust and industrial pollution.
Dr. S.N. Tripathi (IIT Kanpur) warns: “Cloud seeding is a band-aid. We need systemic reforms.”
Alternatives in Action
With artificial rain sidelined, Delhi is enforcing:
✔ Odd-Even vehicle restrictions (if AQI crosses 450).
✔ Construction bans in pollution hotspots.
✔ Smog towers (though efficacy is debated).
Long-Term Fixes Delhi Can’t Ignore
- Farmers: Incentivize stubble recycling machines.
- Transport: Accelerate electric bus and metro expansions.
- Industry: Stricter emission audits and penalties.
Until then, Delhiites face more “avoid outdoor activities” alerts—proving quick fixes won’t work without nature’s cooperation.
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