In a significant move to combat rising levels of air pollution, the Delhi government has approved a ₹3.21 crore project for cloud seeding trials, to be conducted under the technical guidance of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur. The initiative aims to induce artificial rainfall as a temporary yet impactful measure to settle pollutants and improve air quality in the capital.
The decision was taken at a recent Delhi Cabinet meeting, where officials emphasized the urgent need for short-term interventions alongside long-term pollution control strategies. The proposal includes five cloud seeding operations, each estimated to cost ₹55 lakh. An additional ₹66 lakh has been earmarked for logistics, equipment calibration, and associated preparations.
Cloud seeding, a weather modification technique, involves dispersing substances like silver iodide into pre-existing clouds to stimulate precipitation. The trials will cover approximately 100 square kilometers, targeting the outskirts of Delhi where cloud development is more viable.
The first phase of the operation is expected to begin in late May or early June, subject to mandatory approvals from key regulatory bodies including the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the Ministry of Defence, and the India Meteorological Department (IMD). Officials from IIT Kanpur will oversee the seeding process, which will involve specially equipped aircraft flying at designated altitudes.
Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa stated that while cloud seeding is not a long-term solution to the capital’s air quality woes, it could prove to be an effective emergency response during periods of severe pollution. “We are exploring innovative and science-backed solutions. Artificial rain is one such option that can help provide temporary relief during peak pollution episodes,” he said.
This project is part of a broader initiative by the Delhi government to deploy advanced technologies in the fight against pollution. The administration is already employing AI-based tools to identify pollution hotspots, monitor emission patterns, and enforce environmental regulations more effectively.
If successful, the Delhi cloud seeding trials could serve as a model for other pollution-prone cities seeking quick interventions to improve air quality during critical periods.