Delhi Plans Cloud Seeding Within Days as Air Quality Deteriorates Before Diwali Celebrations

Delhi's Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa has announced that cloud seeding operations may commence within two to three days, contingent upon favorable weather conditions. This announcement follows the implementation of restrictions under phase one of the graded response action plan (GRAP-1), triggered when the air quality index (AQI) exceeded 200.

The activation of GRAP a week before Diwali signals the anticipated deterioration of air quality in Delhi during the winter season. Amid rising pollution concerns, the Supreme Court has permitted the sale and use of green crackers for Diwali celebrations, attempting to balance environmental protection with cultural traditions.

Minister Sirsa confirmed that pilot training for cloud seeding has been completed. "If weather conditions are suitable in the coming days, with IMD's approval, we can be ready to conduct the exercise within three hours," he stated. He also highlighted that despite having older vehicles on the road, Delhi experienced clear skies for a significant number of days this year.

Plans for artificial rain in Delhi have been in development for approximately three months. The initial timeline targeted July 4-11, but inducing rain during monsoon when pollution levels are naturally lower faced criticism. However, experts note that monsoon clouds are essential for effective cloud seeding. Based on recommendations from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), Pune, the operation was rescheduled for the period between August 30 and September 10.

Cloud seeding involves introducing substances such as silver iodide and dry ice into clouds to induce precipitation. This technique can address water scarcity, insufficient snowfall, or reduce hail and fog. The process can be implemented using aircraft, rockets, or ground-based equipment. IIT Kanpur has developed a formulation containing silver iodide nanoparticles, iodized salt, and rock salt for this purpose.

Delhi continues to struggle with severe air pollution, remaining India's most polluted megacity by a considerable margin during the 2024-25 winter. The Centre for Science and Environment reported an average PM2.5 concentration of 175 micrograms per cubic meter. According to the Energy Policy Institute at the University of Chicago (EPIC), this level of air pollution reduces residents' life expectancy by an average of 11.9 years compared to World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines.