No Artificial Rain After Cloud Seeding: Why Delhi’s Rs 3.2 Crore Experiment Fell Flat
In a high-profile attempt to curb Delhi’s hazardous air pollution, the AAP government spent Rs 3.2 crore on a cloud seeding project to trigger artificial rain. Despite the hype, the experiment failed, raising questions about its feasibility and the government’s planning.
The Cloud Seeding Plan: How It Was Supposed to Work
Cloud seeding, a weather modification technique, involves spraying salts or silver iodide into clouds to induce rainfall. With Delhi’s air quality index (AQI) often crossing 400+ (severe category), authorities hoped artificial rain could reduce PM2.5 & PM10 levels by 30%.
The project, developed with IIT-Kanpur, was initially planned for November 2022 but faced repeated delays. While countries like China & UAE have used cloud seeding successfully, Delhi’s weather conditions proved unsuitable.
3 Key Reasons Why Delhi’s Cloud Seeding Failed
1. Unfavorable Weather Conditions
- Cloud seeding requires moisture-rich clouds & stable wind patterns—conditions Delhi lacked in winter.
- Experts noted that dry air & thin cloud cover made artificial rain nearly impossible.
2. Delays & Poor Execution
- Bureaucratic hurdles & aircraft shortages delayed the project.
- By the time permissions were secured, the optimal weather window had passed.
3. Lack of Scientific Consensus
- Dr. V.K. Soni (IMD): “Artificial rain isn’t a pollution cure. Cutting emissions & long-term policies work better.”
- Many scientists argue cloud seeding’s effectiveness in urban areas remains unproven.
Public Outrage & Political Fallout
The failed experiment sparked backlash:
– Opposition criticism: BJP called it a “Rs 3.2 crore PR stunt”.
– Citizen frustration: Locals argued funds should’ve gone to public transport or anti-pollution drives.
What Delhi Needs Instead of Quick Fixes
Experts recommend sustainable solutions:
✔ Stricter pollution enforcement – Penalize stubble burning, construction dust, & industrial emissions.
✔ Expand green cover – More urban forests & tree plantations.
✔ Boost electric vehicles – Incentivize EV adoption to cut vehicular pollution.
Conclusion: Lessons from a Failed Experiment
Delhi’s cloud seeding failure shows that shortcuts won’t solve pollution. Instead, systemic reforms, stricter laws, and green investments are needed for long-term clean air.
With another smoggy winter ahead, Delhiites await real solutions—not expensive experiments.
