NEW DELHI: The Union environment ministry on Thursday indicated that cloud seeding, as an emergency measure to improve Delhi’s air quality, may not be a feasible option. This is because the specific cloud conditions required for seeding are generally absent during the capital’s cold and dry winter months, and there are concerns about the “uncertainties, efficacy, and potential adverse effects of the chemicals”.
The ministry, in response to a Parliament question, told the Rajya Sabha that it shared the views of experts with Delhi govt which urged the Centre to consider the option of artificial rains through cloud seeding. Quoting experts, the ministry in a written response said, “Winter clouds in the region are primarily formed due to western disturbance, which are short-lived and travel from West to East. When low clouds form due to WDs, they typically result in natural ra-infall over Northwest India, eliminating the need for cloud seeding. High-altitude clouds, which are typically at elevations above 5-6 km, cannot be seeded due to aircraft limitations.”
“…Even if suitable clouds were present, the dry atmospheric layer beneath them could cause any developed precipitation to evaporate before reaching the surface,” he added.
Delhi environment minister Gopal Rai had written four letters (Aug 30, Oct 10, Oct 23 and Nov 19) to the Union environment ministry, seeking consideration of cloud seeding options. “In this regard, expert opinions were sought from IMD, CAQM and Central Pollution Control Board regarding feasibility of cloud seeding for artificial rainfall in Delhi during winter,” said the ministry. It told the House that a meeting with concerned stakeholders and experts was also convened by CAQM on Nov 27 for exploring the feasibility of the cloud seeding to tackle the air pollution crisis in Delhi.
