To counteract Delhi’s high air pollution levels, the government is thinking of using cloud seeding to create fake rain this month. On November 8, Environment Minister Gopal Rai convened with an IIT Kanpur team to explore the potential of bringing artificial rainfall to the city.
Following the meeting, Gopal Rai hinted that artificial rainfall might be used in Delhi on November 20–21 if the sky stays cloudy. The goal of this creative strategy is to address the issues surrounding the capital’s Air Quality Index (AQI).
ARTIFICIAL RAIN: WHAT IS IT?
Cloud seeding, another name for artificial rain, is a method of modifying the weather with the intention of causing precipitation. In this procedure, chemicals like potassium or silver iodide are introduced into clouds via airplanes or helicopters.
Certain climatic conditions are necessary for cloud seeding to be successful, such as the presence of clouds that are high in moisture and appropriate wind patterns.
Its goal is to lessen drought conditions or increase rainfall in specific areas. This fascinating technique is used to modify weather patterns for water resource management, environmental, and agricultural goals.
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There are increased hazards for vulnerable groups, such as children, the elderly, and people with pre-existing medical issues. According to medical professionals, breathing Delhi’s contaminated air is equivalent to smoking about ten cigarettes every day.
By putting policies in place like the odd-even car programme, closing schools temporarily for in-person instruction, and adhering to Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), the government is aggressively tackling this issue. Experts warn that the usage of firecrackers during Diwali could make the issue worse.
