Key Takeaways
- Cloud seeding planned for October 29 at Rs 55 lakh per attempt
- Experts call it a “gimmick” with limited, temporary impact
- Scientific consensus on effectiveness remains divided
- Long-term environmental risks require more research
As Delhi struggles with severe air pollution, cloud seeding has emerged as a controversial potential solution. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has labeled the artificial rain initiative a “necessity,” with the first attempt scheduled for October 29. However, scientists and environmental experts are raising serious concerns about the technology’s effectiveness and ethical implications.
How Cloud Seeding Works
Cloud seeding involves dispersing silver iodide particles into clouds using aircraft or drones. These particles mimic ice crystals, potentially increasing rainfall and dispersing fog. Each attempt costs approximately Rs 55 lakh, but the results are temporary and limited to specific areas.
The technology depends heavily on favorable weather conditions, particularly adequate cloud cover over the target region.
Expert Warnings and Past Failures
Professors Shehzad Gani and Krishna AchutaRao from Delhi’s Centre for Atmospheric Sciences have described the plan as a “textbook case of science misapplied and ethics ignored.” They compared it to Delhi’s 2021 smog towers, which cost Rs 23 crore but failed to improve air quality according to reports.
Scientific Uncertainty
A 2024 US Government Accountability Office report highlights the challenge of targeting the right clouds effectively. The report notes a lack of consensus on defining successful cloud seeding and suggests self-evaluations may show bias toward positive outcomes.
A 2018 study found it difficult to determine whether rainfall increases result from cloud seeding or natural weather variations. The research emphasized that statistical assumptions in effect evaluation require careful examination.
Limited Benefits, Potential Risks
While a 2023 study noted temporary reductions in PM10 particles and water-soluble pollutants after seeded rains, PM2.5 concentrations remained largely unchanged.
More concerning are the long-term ecological risks. Repeated cloud seeding could lead to chemical accumulation in soil and water bodies. Limited research exists on the effects on agriculture, ecosystems, and human health, validating public environmental concerns.
The Real Pollution Solutions
The article concludes that addressing Delhi’s primary pollution sources—vehicle emissions, waste burning, construction, and power plants—remains crucial. Until these fundamental issues receive priority, will continue to plague the city each winter.
