Cloud Seeding and Air Pollution in North India: A Critical Perspective

Delhi's proposal for cloud seeding to combat air pollution has sparked debate about its scientific validity and ethical implications.

Current Air Quality Challenges

• The air quality in North India is consistently poor, especially post-monsoon and winter.
• During these seasons, the region experiences stagnant air and stable, high-pressure systems that trap pollutants.
• Brief rains due to western disturbances are sporadic and not a reliable solution to pollution.

Cloud Seeding: Misapplied Science

• Limitations:
  • Cloud seeding requires existing clouds and cannot create them.
  • Its effectiveness in increasing rainfall is debated and offers only temporary pollution relief.
• Environmental Concerns:
  • Involves dispersing substances like silver iodide, posing potential risks to health and ecosystems.
  • Long-term impacts of these substances remain unclear.

Ethical and Governance Issues

• Accountability:
  • Potential public backlash if cloud seeding coincides with adverse weather events.
  • Questions of responsibility if cloud seeding leads to unintended consequences.
• Misallocation of Resources:
  • Diversion of attention from effective, evidence-based solutions such as cleaner transport and sustainable energy.
  • Risk of undermining public trust in science and governance.

Real Solutions to Air Pollution

• Regulation of emissions from vehicles, industries, and waste management.
• Promotion of sustainable energy and urban planning.
• Need for courage and commitment to implement systemic changes for long-term air quality improvement.

Overall, addressing air pollution in North India requires genuine, systemic policy changes rather than temporary, unscientific measures like cloud seeding.