The Delhi government is all set to conduct its first-ever artificial rain through cloud seeding to combat air pollution. The initiative, led by IIT Kanpur, involves cloud seeding using modified aircraft.
What is Artificial Rain?
- Artificial rain, also known as cloud seeding, is a weather modification technique aimed at enhancing precipitation (generate artificial rain) from clouds.
- Method: Uses chemicals like silver iodide, potassium iodide, and dry ice, which are dispersed into the sky via aeroplanes and helicopters.
- These chemicals attract water vapour (acting as nuclei), helping form rain clouds.
- Types: Hygroscopic Cloud Seeding (accelerates the merging of droplets in liquid clouds) and Glaciogenic Cloud Seeding (induces ice formation in super cooled clouds).
Way Forward
Cloud seeding offers potential as a supplementary solution for water scarcity and agricultural support. However, its use must be guided by scientific research, environmental safeguards, and clear regulations.