Artificial rain in Delhi? Here’s how Cloud Seeding works; Full details here

Cloud seeding is a scientific technique used to induce artificial rainfall. This technique involves releasing chemical particles, such as silver iodide, sodium chloride, or potassium iodide, into clouds using an aircraft or rocket.

New Delhi: Cloud seeding was successfully trialed for the first time in Delhi on Tuesday. According to officials, a flight from Kanpur conducted cloud seeding over several areas of Delhi such as Burari, Karol Bagh, Bhojpur, Mayur Vihar, and Sadakpur. At that time, the clouds had 15-20 percent humidity, which led to the prediction of rain between 5 and 6 pm.

The purpose of this experiment is to improve Delhi's air quality and control rising pollution. Let's learn more about cloud seeding and how artificial rain is achieved.

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What is Cloud Seeding?

Cloud seeding is a scientific technique used to induce artificial rainfall. This technique involves releasing chemical particles, such as silver iodide, sodium chloride, or potassium iodide, into clouds using an aircraft or rocket. These chemicals attract water vapor in the clouds, accelerating the process of condensation, ultimately leading to the formation of raindrops.

This process is often used to induce rain in dry areas, reduce air pollution, or replenish dry reservoirs. This technique has already been successfully adopted in several countries, including China, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the United States, and Australia.

How Is Cloud Seeding Being Carried Out In Delhi?

• The responsibility for cloud seeding in Delhi has been assigned to a team from IIT Kanpur and the Delhi government.
• A plane takes off from Kanpur, carrying special equipment and a chemical solution.
• Based on data from the Meteorological Department, this plane reaches clouds that have sufficient humidity.
• After determining the height and direction of the clouds, silver iodide particles are released from the aircraft.
• These particles attract water vapor, gradually initiating condensation and precipitation.

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Will It Rain In Delhi?

Experts from the Meteorological Department and IIT Kanpur say that this experiment is likely to produce light to moderate rainfall in Delhi. Its primary objective is to reduce air pollution, which has currently reached dangerous levels. If this experiment is successful, the Delhi government may plan to conduct cloud seeding in more areas in the coming days.

Experts believe that this type of artificial rain will not only settle dust and smoke particles in the air but will also significantly improve the air quality index.