Delhi Calls for Cloud Seeding to Combat Winter Air Pollution

Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai has requested the Centre to hold a meeting with stakeholders to evaluate cloud seeding as a solution to the city's severe winter air pollution. Cloud seeding is being considered as an emergency measure to induce rain and improve air quality in November.

Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai is urging the Centre to convene a stakeholder meeting to discuss the feasibility of cloud seeding as a way to artificially induce rain and tackle the city's persistent winter air pollution.

In a letter to Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav, Rai highlighted the severe air quality issues Delhi faces each November, emphasizing the need to assess cloud seeding as an emergency measure.

He stressed the importance of exploring all available options to provide immediate relief to Delhi's residents. The Delhi government has considered this method as part of broader efforts to manage hazardous air quality days. IIT-Kanpur has been asked to create a comprehensive presentation on the subject.

However, cloud seeding technology implementation requires approvals from various central agencies. Rai called for an urgent meeting with representatives from these agencies, including the Central Pollution Control Board and India Meteorological Department, to discuss the logistical and regulatory challenges involved.

(With inputs from agencies.)