Delhi is preparing to conduct its first cloud seeding trial in early September to tackle rising air pollution by inducing artificial rain. This method involves spraying substances like silver iodide or sodium chloride into clouds to encourage rainfall, which can help wash pollutants out of the air. The project, led by IIT-Kanpur, was originally planned for July but was delayed based on weather inputs from IMD and other agencies. The new timeline coincides with the retreating monsoon, offering better cloud conditions.
The Delhi government has approved ₹3.21 crore for the pilot, which will be executed by IIT-Kanpur’s Aerospace Engineering Department. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has cleared all flight operations. A specially equipped Cessna 206-H aircraft will carry out five test flights over pollution-prone areas like Rohini, Bawana, and parts of Uttar Pradesh including Loni and Baghpat.
Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa confirmed that all safety protocols are in place, and the aircraft will avoid restricted air zones. He said the experiment aims to improve air quality during the post-monsoon period when pollution levels typically rise. If successful, the initiative could offer a new way to manage Delhi’s air pollution crisis.
