What is cloud seeding? A proposed solution to Delhi's severe air pollution crisis
Published On : 2024-11-20T15:34:33+0530 [ IST ] |
Author : Mayur_Tembhare
Reading Time : 2 mins
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As Delhi faces an escalating air pollution crisis the idea of cloud seeding or artificial rain has been proposed as a potential short-term solution to improve the city's hazardous air quality.
In response to this the Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai has called on the Central Government for assistance urging Prime Minister Narendra Modi to facilitate the use of cloud seeding to help mitigate the growing pollution problem. The Delhi government has been exploring cloud seeding as a possible
What is cloud seeding or artificial rain?
What is cloud seeding?
Cloud seeding is a weather modification technique designed to increase precipitation by introducing specific substances into clouds encouraging the formation of rain or snow. Common materials used in the process include silver iodide potassium iodide and dry ice. These substances act as nuclei around which water droplets can form
Cloud seeding can be carried out using various methods such as aircraft, ground-based generators or even rockets. In the context of air pollution the primary goal is to "wash away" pollutants from the atmosphere. The theory is that increased rainfall could help settle dust, particulate matter
The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur has proposed a cloud seeding project to the Delhi government estimating the cost of the initiative at about 1 lakh per square kilometre.
Is artificial rain effective?
How effective is artificial rain?
The effectiveness of cloud seeding in improving air quality remains a point of debate among scientists. Some studies suggest that cloud seeding can modestly increase rainfall but the impact on air pollution is less clear. While it may temporarily reduce particulate matter in the air but it does not address the root causes of pollution
Experts caution that cloud seeding should not be viewed as a permanent solution to Delhi's air quality issues. The technique is not universally effective and depends on certain atmospheric conditions such as the presence of clouds with sufficient moisture.
Additionally there are environmental concerns about the long-term effects of introducing chemicals into the atmosphere. Some experts argue that cloud seeding may have unintended consequences and that efforts should be focused on reducing emissions and enforcing stricter pollution control measures
Future of cloud seeding in Delhi Future of cloud seeding in Delhi
Future of cloud seeding in Delhi
As Delhi continues to search for ways to combat its persistent air pollution cloud seeding remains an area of interest though its role in providing lasting solutions is uncertain. While it might offer short-term relief by temporarily clearing the air, experts emphasise that addressing the root causes of air pollution through long-term strategies is crucial
Source : Reporters From Sunrise Chronicles
Tags : Prime Minister Narendra Modi , These , The Indian Institute , pollutionmay help temporarily reduce particulate matter , Additionally , Common , While , Kanpur , expertsincreased rainfall could help settle dust , Future ,
Summary :
As Delhi faces an escalating air pollution crisis the idea of cloud seeding or artificial rain has been proposed as a potential short-term solution to improve the city's hazardous air quality.
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