Delhi’s Cloud Seeding Experiment: A High-Stakes Gamble Against Pollution
In a high-profile bid to tackle Delhi’s toxic air, authorities turned to cloud seeding—a controversial weather modification technique. Over two days, a Cessna aircraft flew sorties, releasing 16 flares loaded with silver iodide to trigger artificial rain. But did it deliver? Here’s a deep dive into the results, costs, and lingering questions.
How Delhi Tried to Seed Clouds
On November 20–21, the Delhi government, IIT Kanpur, and private experts conducted two flights at 5,000–7,000 feet, targeting moisture-rich clouds:
– First Flight (Nov 20): 8 flares deployed – no rain.
– Second Flight (Nov 21): 8 more flares – light drizzle in patches.
Officials called it a “partial success,” citing slight air quality improvements in localized areas. But with no city-wide impact, skepticism grew.
Why Did Cloud Seeding Fall Short?
- Poor Weather Conditions: Cloud seeding needs thick, moisture-heavy clouds. Delhi’s skies were too dry.
- Limited Coverage: Only select areas were targeted, leaving most of the city unaffected.
- No Real-Time Data: No system tracked immediate pollution changes post-seeding.
“This was a trial. We need more data,” admitted Dr. Sachchida Nand Tripathi (IIT Kanpur).
The Staggering Cost: ₹1 Crore Per Flight
Each sortie cost ₹1 crore+—covering aircraft rental, equipment, and experts. Critics argue the funds could’ve bolstered long-term fixes like:
– Stricter industrial emission controls
– EV incentives
– Better public transport
Experts Divided: Innovation or Waste?
✅ Supporters: “Even minor relief helps in a crisis.”
❌ Opponents: “A costly distraction from systemic failures.”
“Cloud seeding isn’t a magic fix. Sustainable measures are vital,” stressed Dr. Gufran Beig (SAFAR founder).
What’s Next for Delhi’s Pollution Fight?
The government may scale up seeding if weather permits, but experts demand:
✔ Precise meteorological forecasts
✔ Larger trials with measurable outcomes
✔ Priority on reducing emissions (vehicles, industry, stubble burning)
The Bottom Line
While cloud seeding showed potential, its real-world impact was minimal. Delhi’s pollution crisis demands urgent, multi-layered action—not just experimental quick fixes.
For now, the skies (and solutions) remain unclear.
