Delhi Prepares for First-Ever Cloud Seeding Trial
Delhi is gearing up for its first cloud seeding operation today, subject to favorable weather conditions. According to Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa, the exercise will be conducted once visibility improves in Kanpur, where the designated aircraft is currently stationed.
“As soon as the weather clears up in Kanpur, our aircraft will take off from there today. If it succeeds in taking off, cloud seeding will be carried out in Delhi. This will help induce rainfall in the city,” said Mr. Sirsa.
He added that visibility in Kanpur is currently around 2,000 metres, but 5,000 metres is required for takeoff. “We hope conditions will improve by 12:30–1 pm,” he noted.
What Is Cloud Seeding?
Cloud seeding is a scientific process used to enhance rainfall or snowfall. It involves dispersing substances such as silver iodide, dry ice, or salt particles into clouds to stimulate precipitation. The method is often employed in drought-prone areas, to clear fog, or to reduce hail.
The IIT Kanpur-developed formulation for Delhi’s trials includes silver iodide nanoparticles, iodised salt, and rock salt.
Why Delhi Is Turning to Artificial Rain
Delhi is one of the world’s most polluted cities, facing persistently high levels of air pollution. The government hopes that artificial rain can temporarily reduce pollution levels and provide citizens with cleaner air.
During the 2024–25 winter, Delhi recorded an average PM2.5 concentration of 175 µg/m³, making it India’s most polluted megacity, according to the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE).
A report by the Energy Policy Institute at the University of Chicago (EPIC) found that air pollution is cutting Delhi residents’ life expectancy by nearly 12 years compared to WHO standards.
As of 8 a.m. today, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi was 306 (‘very poor’ category), according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
Key area readings:
- Anand Vihar: 321
- RK Puram: 320
- Siri Fort: 350
- Bawana: 336
- Burari Crossing: 326
- Dwarka Sector 8: 316
- Mundka: 324
- Narela: 303
- Punjabi Bagh: 323
Details of the Cloud Seeding Project
The Delhi government signed an MoU with IIT Kanpur on September 25 to conduct five cloud seeding trials, all scheduled in northwest Delhi.
The DGCA has permitted IIT Kanpur to conduct these operations between October 1 and November 30.
Earlier, the Delhi Cabinet approved ₹3.21 crore for the project on May 7. However, the trials faced several postponements due to unfavorable weather in May, June, August, September, and even mid-October.