The growing problem of smog and polluted air in Delhi has pushed the authorities to take action; as a result, a cloud-seeding trial was conducted on Tuesday. According to sources, an aeroplane was deployed to spray chemicals to induce rain and wash pollutants in the worst-polluted areas of the capital region.
The trials on Tuesday were conducted over North Karol Bagh, Burari, Mayur Vihar, and Badli.
The cloud-seeding method has been used in several regions across the world, including the United States and the United Arab Emirates, though its efficacy remains questionable. The experiment was conducted in collaboration with IIT Kanpur, and as per Manjinder Singh Sirsa, a few more trials will be conducted in the coming days.
Latest reports from the government have recently confirmed that the trials for 29th October are on hold as there is less moisture in the atmosphere. IIT Kanpur has also confirmed this, citing a lack of proper atmospheric conditions. The team involved in the cloud-seeding process also confirmed that the rainfall is not possible with 15% to 20% moisture, but the experiment has given some important information.
A statement released by the authorities stated that monitoring stations across the capital have revealed that there was an approximate reduction of 6 to 10% in the PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations. This proved that despite the limited availability of moisture, cloud seeding can help improve the air quality.
New Delhi, which has a population of 30 million people, is ranked as the most polluted capital. Not just this, India has six out of the world’s top 10 most polluted cities. There are various reasons behind Delhi’s pollution. Its geographic location, the stubble burning on its edges, and pollution from vehicles, industries, and construction are the most prominent contributors to the menace.
