Delhi, the capital of India, has been grappling with severe air pollution for years. As pollution levels reached hazardous levels, the city’s environment minister proposed cloud seeding as a possible solution. Cloud seeding is a technique that involves spraying particles of salt, like silver iodide or chloride, on clouds to stimulate rain formation. While this method has been used in other countries for air quality management and dust suppression, its effectiveness and long-term impact on the environment are still unclear.
The proposal for cloud seeding in Delhi awaits approval from India’s Supreme Court and federal ministries, which will determine whether the plan can be implemented later this month. However, experts raise concerns about the efficacy of cloud seeding in combating pollution. They argue that atmospheric conditions need to be ideal, with the right level of moisture and humidity in the clouds, for this technique to work effectively. Factors like wind speeds also play a crucial role.
Cloud seeding has been around for decades and has been used in various countries, including the United States, China, and the UAE. However, its impact on air quality has been episodic at best. While rainfall immediately reduces pollution levels, they tend to bounce back within 48-72 hours. Moreover, cloud seeding is an expensive process that diverts scarce resources towards a temporary solution.
Experts emphasize the need for a well-planned and deliberated approach towards air quality management. They suggest that a multidisciplinary team comprising meteorologists, air quality policy experts, epidemiologists, and more should develop protocols and policies. Simply relying on meteorological variables like rainfall and wind speed will not be sufficient to curb air pollution.
There are also concerns about the lack of substantial empirical evidence on how much the air quality index (AQI) will actually improve through cloud seeding. Altering natural processes through artificial rain may have unintended consequences, which are yet to be fully understood.
Ultimately, solving the air pollution crisis in Delhi requires concerted efforts rather than scattered trial-and-error experiments. The city needs comprehensive measures to reduce vehicular and industrial emissions, control dust, and address crop burning in neighboring states. While cloud seeding may offer a temporary respite, it is not a definitive or lasting solution.
As the Delhi government awaits approval for cloud seeding, it is essential to consider the long-term environmental impact, cost-effectiveness, and efficacy of this technique. A balanced and evidence-based approach is necessary to effectively address the city’s air pollution problem and safeguard the health of its residents.
