Quick Overview
Delhi’s recent partnership with IIT-Kanpur to deploy cloud seeding for tackling post-monsoon air pollution has raised both hope and scientific skepticism. While cloud seeding can help induce rainfall under suitable meteorological conditions, experts have questioned its feasibility during Delhi’s dry post-monsoon months. The initiative sheds light on India’s broader challenge of addressing air pollution sustainably through technology, regulation, and behavioural reform.
Introduction
In a bold yet debated move, the Delhi government collaborated with IIT-Kanpur to conduct cloud seeding experiments as an emergency response to severe air pollution following the monsoon. While the concept of artificially inducing rain to cleanse the air appears promising, meteorologists and environmental scientists have cautioned against its practical limitations and environmental consequences. This initiative reignites the discussion around technological interventions versus long-term sustainable measures in India’s urban environmental management.
What is Cloud Seeding?
Cloud seeding is a weather modification process designed to enhance precipitation from existing clouds. It involves dispersing agents such as silver iodide, potassium iodide, sodium chloride, or dry ice into clouds via aircraft or ground-based methods. These particles act as nuclei around which moisture condenses, leading to the formation of larger droplets that eventually fall as rain or snow.
Importantly, cloud seeding cannot generate clouds but only stimulates rainfall from existing ones with adequate moisture. Its applications span rain enhancement in drought-prone areas, pollution reduction, fog dispersal near airports, and weather modification for agricultural benefits.
Cloud Seeding in India and Globally
India’s Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) has carried out multiple studies under the Cloud Aerosol Interaction and Precipitation Enhancement Experiment (CAIPEEX) between 2009 and 2019, reporting up to a 46% increase in rainfall under favourable conditions.
Indian states such as Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu have experimented with the technology for drought mitigation. Globally, China, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia have deployed cloud seeding to manage water scarcity and control weather conditions.
Limitations of Cloud Seeding for Pollution Control
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Absence of Rain-bearing Clouds:
The post-monsoon period (October–December) in North India lacks sufficient moisture-laden clouds, making cloud seeding largely ineffective. -
Dependence on Western Disturbances:
Rainfall in this period relies on infrequent western disturbances, which are difficult to predict or coordinate with seeding operations. -
Temporary and Localized Relief:
Even if successful, induced rainfall only offers short-term relief as pollution levels rebound with continued emissions. -
Environmental and Accountability Concerns:
The use of silver iodide and other chemicals raises questions about ecological accumulation. Moreover, the absence of regulatory frameworks complicates responsibility in case of adverse weather outcomes. -
Resource Misallocation:
Limited regional data and uncertain outcomes risk diverting funds from proven pollution control measures.
Persistent Causes of Air Pollution in Delhi
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Vehicular Emissions: Delhi’s 1.2 crore vehicles remain a major source of PM2.5 and NOx emissions.
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Crop Residue Burning: Seasonal stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana severely deteriorates NCR’s air quality.
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Industrial and Construction Dust: Continuous construction and industrial operations add to suspended particulate matter.
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Meteorological Factors: Winter inversions, low wind speeds, and the city’s topography in the Indo-Gangetic Plain trap pollutants close to the surface.
Sustainable Alternatives and Long-term Solutions
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Emission Control: Enforce stricter vehicle norms and accelerate EV adoption under the Electric Mobility Promotion Scheme (EMPS) 2024.
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Industrial Regulation: Implement the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) with better compliance and phase out coal-based power near NCR.
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Waste Management: Curb open waste burning and promote recycling based on successful models from Surat and Indore.
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Crop Residue Management: Expand the use of Happy Seeder and incentivize farmers for adopting non-burning practices.
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Urban Greening: Increase tree cover and green buffers to absorb particulate pollutants.
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Citizen Engagement: Encourage public participation through carpooling, waste reduction, and adherence to air-quality advisories.
Conclusion
While cloud seeding represents scientific innovation in environmental management, its application for urban pollution control is premature and uncertain. True progress lies in structural reforms—reducing emissions, advancing renewable energy, and strengthening governance. India’s environmental strategy must prioritize sustainability and scientific prudence over short-term fixes.
CLAT / Exam Relevance Summary
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Prelims Focus:
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Cloud seeding mechanism and materials (Silver Iodide, Potassium Iodide, etc.)
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CAIPEEX experiment and EMPS 2024 scheme
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Causes of Delhi’s air pollution (vehicular, stubble, industrial, meteorological)
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Mains Focus:
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Evaluate cloud seeding as a scientific intervention for pollution control.
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Discuss long-term sustainable strategies for managing air quality in India.
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Linkages with GS Paper 3 topics: Environmental Pollution, Sustainable Development, Science & Technology.
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