The Delhi administration is preparing to initiate its inaugural cloud-seeding-driven artificial rainfall experiment aimed at tackling air pollution. All necessary approvals from scientific, meteorological, and aviation authorities have been secured, leaving the city poised to commence activities once suitable clouds appear.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has approved the experiment, confirming the viability of cloud seeding across the National Capital Region (NCR). This represents an important step toward scientifically driven environmental action in what is among the planet’s most contaminated urban areas.
IIT Kanpur Heads the Skyward Mission
The pilot project named "Demonstrating and Evaluating Cloud Seeding as an Alternative Method for Reducing Air Pollution in Delhi NCR" is led by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur. This initiative involves using modified Cessna planes outfitted with flares to release a special blend containing silver iodide particles, iodized salt, rock salt, and hygroscopic materials into the air. The purpose of these components is to increase water vapor uptake and promote precipitation, thereby aiding in lowering pollution levels in the region.
"We are just awaiting the appropriate cloud conditions. When everything aligns perfectly, Delhi will see its inaugural artificial rainfall experiment," stated Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa.
"This goes beyond simply making it rain; it's about trying out a scientific plan to develop cleaner air methods for tomorrow. We're challenging limits at all levels—from city roads to the open sky—to ensure our right to fresh air," he said additionally.
Five Missions Scheduled Over National Capital Region Skies
The initial stage encompasses five flying missions aimed at low-risk, non-critical airspace areas in the outskirts and northwestern parts of Delhi. Every mission will be around 90 minutes long and will span roughly 100 square kilometers.
The real-time meteorological information supplied by the IMD—which includes details like cloud elevation, cloud classification, wind direction, and dew point—will help identify the best times for flights. Safety measures will be strictly adhered to, with exclusion of specific areas including Rashtrapati Bhavan, the Prime Minister’s official residence, and Parliament House from operational activities.
The perfect cloud configuration for this operation is the Nimbostratus (Ns) type—these clouds sit within an altitude range of 500 to 6,000 meters above the ground level and have a minimum humidity level of 50%.
Close Monitoring Required for Air Quality Impact
To evaluate the environmental effects of artificial rainfall, continuous real-time air quality assessments will be conducted throughout Delhi. The emphasis will be on major contaminants such as PM2.5 and PM10, which will be gauged via Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Stations. CAA QMS) installed citywide.
The estimated cost of the project stands at ₹3.21 crore and is fully funded by the Department of Environment, Government of NCT of Delhi. IIT Kanpur, which previously conducted seven successful in-house cloud seeding trials in drought-hit regions, is leveraging its experience to determine if artificial rain can help mitigate urban pollution.
“Esteemed as a bold step in science and equity for the environment,” stated Minister Sirsa. “Should this endeavor prove fruitful, it may reshape the approach ofIndia’s contaminated urban centers towards tackling air quality crises.”