Delhi to See First-Ever Artificial Rain: Know How It Works
Delhi, struggling with severe air pollution each winter, is now preparing for its first-ever artificial rain. The government, in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur, plans to use cloud seeding technology to reduce harmful smog and improve air quality.
What is Artificial Rain?
Artificial rain is a scientific method of creating rainfall by dispersing certain chemicals into the atmosphere. These substances, such as silver iodide or sodium chloride, act as nuclei around which water droplets accumulate to form rain clouds. Once conditions are favorable, the droplets cause rainfall — even when natural precipitation is unlikely.
How It Works
Cloud Identification: Meteorologists identify suitable clouds with enough moisture content.
Aerial Spraying: Aircraft or drones release silver iodide or dry ice particles into those clouds.
Formation of Raindrops: The chemicals encourage tiny water particles to condense and merge.
Precipitation: As the droplets grow heavier, they fall as rainfall, improving local air quality.
Why Delhi Needs It
Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) often crosses the “severe” category during winter due to stubble burning and stagnant wind patterns. Artificial rain aims to:
Wash away pollutants suspended in the air
Reduce smog density
Provide temporary relief from toxic air
Test feasibility for larger-scale implementation across urban centers
Expert Insights
Officials say if successful, this rain experiment could be replicated across other polluted cities like Gurugram, Noida, and Lucknow. The process requires precise weather conditions and coordination with aviation authorities to ensure safety and efficiency.
FAQs
Q1: When will Delhi experience artificial rain?
The project is expected to begin once suitable cloud conditions appear in late November or early December.
Q2: Is artificial rain safe for the environment?
Yes, the chemicals used are in safe concentration levels and pose minimal environmental risk.
Q3: Has this been done in India before?
Cloud seeding has been attempted in Maharashtra and Karnataka, but this is Delhi’s first large-scale use for pollution control.
Q4: How long will the effect last?
The air-cleansing impact may last a few days, depending on pollutant levels and wind patterns.
Q5: Will it affect daily life or transportation?
Except for short-term changes in weather, it is expected to bring only minor disruptions while significantly cleaning the air.