NEWS

• On October 28, 2025, a cloud seeding trial was conducted in Delhi by IIT Kanpur using a Cessna 206H aircraft.
• The experiment aimed to reduce pollution through artificial rainfall, covering areas like Burari, Mayur Vihar, and Karol Bagh.

HIGHLIGHTS

What is Cloud Seeding?

• Defined by IITM Pune (2024) as a weather modification technique that enhances rainfall by injecting “seed particles” into suitable clouds.
• These particles act as condensation or ice nuclei, promoting droplet or crystal formation that leads to rainfall.
• Common agents: Silver iodide, potassium iodide, or sodium chloride.

 How It Is Carried Out

• Seeding material is dispersed using aircraft, drones, rockets, or ground generators.
• In Delhi’s trial, 8 flares (2–2.5 kg each) were fired from the aircraft into clouds with 15–20% humidity.

Conditions Required

• Presence of suitable clouds with adequate depth and liquid water content is essential.
• Cloud seeding is ineffective during clear skies.
• In Delhi, winter clouds form mainly due to western disturbances from the Mediterranean region, which are often weak for seeding purposes.

Why Use It for Pollution Control

• Rainfall helps wash away pollutants like PM2.5 and PM10 via coagulation, temporarily improving air quality.
• However, experts warn its impact is short-lived and does not address root causes like vehicular emissions, industrial smoke, and stubble burning.

Criticisms

• Uncertain efficacy and dependence on weather conditions.
• Seen as treating symptoms, not sources of pollution.
• High cost and limited success in past experiments raise further skepticism.