Delhi Set To 'Water Down' Pollution Problem, First Artificial Rain Pilot To Take Off Soon
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The pilot project will be executed in collaboration with IIT Kanpur, which will provide all the scientific, technical, and operational support for this intervention
The Delhi government is ready to commence an artificial rain pilot project with all necessary scientific systems and clearances in place to fight the capital's persistent air pollution problem. The cloud seeding flights will start as soon as suitable weather conditions—especially cloud moisture and depth—are observed over targeted zones, the Delhi government announced on Wednesday.
The pilot—"Technology Demonstration and Evaluation of Cloud Seeding as an Alternative for Delhi NCR Pollution Mitigation"—will be executed in collaboration with IIT Kanpur, which will provide all the scientific, technical, and operational support for this intervention.
In addition, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has also formally conveyed its support for the project, confirming meteorological feasibility over the National Capital Region (NCR). The IMD also agreed to provide real-time data on cloud type, altitude, wind conditions, and dew point to aid planning.
Cloud Seeding: The Science and Process
For the artificial rains, IIT Kanpur will deploy specially equipped Cessna aircraft with flare-based seeding systems using a proprietary formulation made of silver iodide nanoparticles, iodised salt, and rock salt.
A maximum of five sorties are planned, with each flight covering 100 sq km and lasting at least 1 hour and 30 minutes over non-sensitive zones of northwest and outer Delhi, excluding restricted airspace.
Final flight plan clearance is still pending and will be needed and obtained later.
Real-time impact on air quality (PM2.5 and PM10) will be measured using Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Stations (CAAQMS) placed in and around the seeding zones.
IIT Kanpur has already conducted seven successful in-house cloud seeding experiments between April and July in drought-prone regions using the same aircraft and flare systems.
'This pilot project in Delhi builds on those trials with a specific focus on pollution mitigation. The idea is not just to induce rain but to evaluate if such precipitation meaningfully reduces particulate matter concentration in ambient air. The project will contribute to a body of evidence for potential future use in other polluted urban regions," the government said.
Nimbostratus (Ns) clouds are the most suitable for seeding experiments, usually between 500 and 6,000 metres above ground level. Clouds will have 50% or higher moisture content.
IIT Kanpur has developed a custom seeding mixture containing pure nanoparticles of silver iodide, powdered rock salt, iodised salt, and a free-flowing agent that combines hygroscopic and glaciogenic cloud-seeding capabilities. Seeding mixture requirements will vary according to moisture content.
The total estimated cost of the pilot project is Rs 3.21 crore and is being fully funded by Delhi's Department of Environment.
This initiative underscores Delhi's resolve to harness cutting-edge science to deliver cleaner air and a healthier environment for its residents.
'Right to Clean Air'
Delhi environment minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa said when they speak about 'Right to Clean Air", they mean it.
'From anti-smog guns and sprinklers to strict dust mitigation norms at construction sites, we are pushing every boundary… This pilot project is not just about artificial rain; it's about scientific courage and environmental justice," he said.
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The minister said all preparations are complete except a few minor operational clearances.
'Now, we're just waiting for the right clouds to appear. The moment the weather cooperates, Delhi will witness its first artificial rain. We are not just fighting pollution—we are building a blueprint for the future," he said.
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Nivedita Singh
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air pollution artificial rain cloud seeding delhi
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New Delhi, India, India
First Published:
June 19, 2025, 00:25 IST
News cities Delhi Set To 'Water Down' Pollution Problem, First Artificial Rain Pilot To Take Off Soon
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