Delhi authorities consider cloud seeding as air quality plunges to hazardous levels

Delhi faces the possibility of cloud seeding operations today as the city contends with severely degraded air quality, according to official sources. The measure is being considered as part of efforts to combat the dense pollution that has enveloped the capital, with air quality index readings reaching "very poor" levels.

Cloud seeding is a weather modification technique that involves introducing substances such as silver iodide and dry ice into cloud formations to induce precipitation. In addition to addressing water scarcity and reducing hail damage, the process has been utilized in various regions to artificially generate rainfall that can help disperse accumulated air pollutants from the atmosphere.

The potential deployment comes as Delhi experiences recurring seasonal air quality challenges, particularly during winter months when temperature inversions trap pollutants near ground level. Authorities have explored multiple interventions, including cloud seeding, as a complementary strategy alongside restrictions on vehicular movement and construction activities.

The effectiveness of cloud seeding in improving air quality remains subject to meteorological conditions, with successful outcomes dependent on suitable cloud cover and atmospheric moisture levels. Officials have not yet confirmed whether conditions are optimal for the operations to proceed today.