New Delhi: The Delhi government is set to conduct five cloud-seeding trials, each scheduled on separate days, with flights lasting approximately one to one-and-a-half hours to disperse chemicals into the atmosphere, an official announced on Monday.
The trials are expected to occur in rapid succession, potentially within a week, contingent upon favorable weather conditions. “If the weather permits, we may conduct all five trials within a week, possibly with intervals of a day or two. The schedule will be determined by cloud availability,” the official stated.
Cloud seeding, often referred to as artificial rain, is a technique used to stimulate precipitation by dispersing specific substances into clouds, which can lead to rainfall if other meteorological conditions are conducive. An official from the Environment Department, who requested anonymity, informed PTI that the specific locations for the trials have yet to be finalized.
The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur, which is spearheading the project from planning to execution, will determine the trial sites based on a range of scientific and logistical considerations. The official noted that the trials cannot be conducted within the city limits, including Lutyens’ Delhi or near Indira Gandhi International Airport, due to safety and airspace regulations.
Consequently, the operations will take place on the outskirts of Delhi, where meteorological conditions will also be a significant factor.
During each trial, an aircraft will operate for one to one-and-a-half hours, with the precise schedule expected to be confirmed soon. The first trial is anticipated to take place by the end of May or in June.
In a renewed effort to address air pollution, the Delhi cabinet approved a proposal on May 7 to conduct these five cloud-seeding trials, with a total project budget of ₹3.21 crore. This allocation includes ₹2.75 crore specifically designated for the trials.
