Cloud-Seeding in Delhi Postponed Due to Low Moisture, IIT Kanpur Promises Fresh Attempt Soon
Image via IANS
New Delhi, October 29: The much-awaited cloud-seeding operation aimed at bringing artificial rain to combat Delhi’s rising pollution levels has been postponed after the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur found that the clouds over the National Capital Region (NCR) lacked sufficient moisture. The institute confirmed that the weather conditions were not favourable for effective rain induction but noted that the trial yielded valuable scientific data that could shape future operations.
Moisture Levels Too Low for Rain Formation
The cloud-seeding operation was scheduled for Wednesday as part of a joint experimental initiative between IIT Kanpur and the Delhi government to tackle the city’s alarming air quality. However, officials from IIT Kanpur revealed that the atmospheric moisture levels were only around 15 to 20 per cent — far below the required threshold for successful rainfall formation.
In an official statement, IIT Kanpur clarified, “While rainfall could not be triggered yesterday because moisture levels were around 15 to 20 per cent, the trial delivered valuable insights. Monitoring stations set up across Delhi captured real-time changes in particulate matter and moisture levels.”
The data collected during the process revealed a 6 to 10 per cent reduction in PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations, showing that even under less-than-ideal conditions, cloud-seeding had a measurable impact on air quality.
Valuable Data Collected Despite No Rainfall
Though the mission failed to produce rainfall, the operation has been hailed as a vital step in understanding how artificial rain can help mitigate Delhi’s pollution crisis. The monitoring stations across Delhi captured fluctuations in particulate matter and humidity, enabling researchers to study real-time environmental changes.
“These observations will help us refine our approach for future operations,” the statement read. “IIT Kanpur remains committed to advancing this research with scientific discipline and a clear focus on improving environmental outcomes for the National Capital Region.”
Experts at the institute believe that each trial adds to the growing body of knowledge on cloud-seeding efficiency, paving the way for better implementation when conditions are favourable.
Not a Failure, But a Step Forward in Research
Speaking exclusively to NDTV, IIT Kanpur Director Prof. Manindra Agrawal explained that while the operation could not induce rainfall this time, the exercise provided critical insights. “This is not a failure. Cloud-seeding is highly dependent on meteorological conditions. The lack of sufficient moisture was the only limiting factor. We will make fresh attempts in the coming days as conditions improve,” he said.
Agrawal further emphasized that cloud-seeding should not be seen as a permanent solution to Delhi’s pollution crisis. “It is an emergency measure, not a long-term remedy. The only sustainable way to address pollution is to control emissions and prevent pollutants from entering the atmosphere in the first place,” he added.
The Science Behind Cloud-Seeding
Cloud-seeding is a weather modification technique where chemical agents such as silver iodide, potassium iodide, or rock salt are dispersed into clouds to encourage condensation and precipitation. The process relies on existing moisture and cloud density, making it highly sensitive to environmental conditions.
In Delhi’s latest attempt, the IIT Kanpur team used a mixture comprising 20 per cent silver iodide and 80 per cent common and rock salt. These substances were fired into the clouds using aircraft-mounted flare systems. On Tuesday, 14 flares were discharged across different locations in Delhi to stimulate rainfall.
However, due to the limited presence of supercooled water droplets and inadequate moisture, the seeding failed to result in rainfall.
Why Cloud-Seeding Matters for Delhi
Delhi, often ranked among the world’s most polluted capitals, has been struggling with severe air pollution, especially during the post-harvest stubble burning season. The Air Quality Index (AQI) frequently crosses the “severe” category, posing major health risks to its residents.
In this context, cloud-seeding was seen as an emergency measure to temporarily wash away pollutants and provide short-term relief from toxic air. The Delhi government, in collaboration with IIT Kanpur, had been preparing for the operation for several weeks, waiting for the right meteorological conditions.
Officials hoped that the artificial rain would help reduce particulate matter concentrations and improve visibility — even if only for a few days.
Cloud-Seeding: A Global Perspective
Globally, cloud-seeding has been used in several countries including the United States, China, Israel, and the United Arab Emirates with varying levels of success. The results largely depend on local atmospheric conditions and the availability of suitable cloud structures.
In India, experimental cloud-seeding efforts have been carried out in Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu to tackle droughts. However, this is the first large-scale attempt aimed at combating urban pollution, marking a significant shift in how India is approaching environmental crisis management.
Experts say that while cloud-seeding can provide temporary relief, it cannot replace long-term policies such as curbing industrial emissions, controlling vehicular pollution, and managing stubble burning in neighbouring states.
Next Steps: Fresh Attempts Likely in Coming Days
According to IIT Kanpur officials, the team will continue monitoring weather forecasts closely. “We are ready for the next phase. As soon as we detect sufficient humidity levels and the presence of suitable clouds, we will initiate another round of seeding,” said Prof. Agrawal.
Meteorologists have predicted that moisture levels may rise later this week, which could allow another attempt. The Delhi government is also coordinating with the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) to identify optimal time windows for the operation.
Experts Urge for Broader Policy Measures
Environmental experts and scientists have welcomed the initiative but caution that cloud-seeding should not divert attention from long-term pollution control strategies.
Dr. Rajesh Kumar, a senior environmental scientist at TERI, explained, “Cloud-seeding can be a temporary measure, but the focus should remain on reducing pollution at the source. Unless emissions from vehicles, industries, and stubble burning are addressed, we will be forced to rely on short-term fixes every year.”
Kumar further added that initiatives like cloud-seeding are important for research and emergency response but must complement, not replace, sustained policy action.
Public Expectations and Government Response
Public anticipation was high ahead of the cloud-seeding operation, with many residents hoping for relief from Delhi’s worsening smog. However, authorities have assured citizens that the experiment is part of a broader strategy that includes strict emission controls, use of smog towers, and promotion of electric vehicles.
A senior Delhi government official stated, “This is not a one-time measure. We are exploring all possible options, including artificial rain, to improve the city’s air quality. But our main focus remains on enforcing anti-pollution laws and coordinating with neighbouring states.”
Final Thoughts from TheTrendingPeople.com
While the cloud-seeding attempt in Delhi did not bring rain, it has undeniably advanced the scientific understanding of artificial rain as a pollution-control tool. The IIT Kanpur-led experiment showed measurable improvements in air quality and offered valuable data for future operations.
The outcome highlights a crucial lesson — quick fixes can provide temporary relief, but the fight against air pollution demands long-term commitment and structural change. Controlling emissions, improving public transport, and regulating industrial output remain the real solutions.
As Delhi continues to grapple with hazardous air, the IIT Kanpur initiative reflects both innovation and urgency — a reminder that science and governance must work hand-in-hand to reclaim the capital’s right to clean air.