What is artificial rain?
Artificial rain, also known as cloud seeding, is a weather modification technique that aims to induce or increase precipitation by dispersing substances into the clouds. These substances, called cloud condensation nuclei or ice nuclei, act as seeds around which water vapor can condense and form raindrops or snowflakes.
How can artificial rain help reduce air pollution in Delhi?
Delhi is one of the most polluted cities in the world, with air quality levels that often exceed safe limits. Air pollution can cause a range of health problems, including respiratory infections, heart disease, and cancer.
Artificial rain can help reduce air pollution in Delhi by washing away pollutants from the atmosphere. Rainwater can also help to suppress dust and other particulate matter, which are major contributors to air pollution.
Is artificial rain safe and effective?
Artificial rain is generally considered to be safe and effective. However, there are some potential risks associated with the technique, such as the possibility of flooding or accidental seeding of unwanted areas.
Is Delhi considering using artificial rain to reduce air pollution?
Yes, the Delhi government is considering using artificial rain to reduce air pollution in the city. In November 2023, the government met with experts from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur to discuss the feasibility of this approach.
The IIT Kanpur team has developed a plan to conduct a pilot project on artificial rain in Delhi. The project would involve seeding clouds with silver iodide or potassium iodide using aircraft. The project is expected to cost around INR 10 crore (approximately USD 1.2 million).
The Delhi government is seeking approval from the Supreme Court of India to proceed with the pilot project. If the project is successful, it could be implemented on a larger scale to help reduce air pollution in Delhi.
Conclusion
Artificial rain is a promising technology that has the potential to help reduce air pollution in Delhi. However, more research is needed to fully understand the risks and benefits of this approach. The Delhi government’s pilot project on artificial rain will be an important step in this direction.
