First cloud seeding trial conducted in parts of Delhi, artificial rain likely soon
A modified Cessna-206H aircraft flew over the moisture-laden clouds on Delhi’s northern outskirts, releasing chemicals such as silver iodide and sodium chloride to trigger rainfall.
PTC News Desk: In an attempt to mitigate pollution levels in the national capital, first cloud seeding trial was conducted in parts of Delhi to stimulate rainfall may soon wash away the toxic air.
A modified Cessna-206H aircraft flew over the moisture-laden clouds on Delhi’s northern outskirts, releasing chemicals such as silver iodide and sodium chloride to trigger rainfall. The cloud seeding experiment, conducted on Tuesday, followed a test flight last week over Burari, where smaller quantities of the same chemicals were used. However, that attempt failed to produce rain due to low moisture levels—below 20% instead of the required 50%.
The project, which has secured final approvals from both the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Delhi government’s environment department, marks the first large-scale attempt to generate artificial rain in the national capital.
Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa said if successful, artificial rain through cloud seeding could help reduce air pollution levels significantly. Rainfall may tak place within 15 minutes or take up to 4 hours.
"Cloud seeding occurred in Khekra, Burari, Mayur Vihar, and several other areas. Eight flares were used, and the entire process lasted about half an hour. The second and third trials will also take place today," Sirsa stated.
The initiative comes as Delhi battles severe air pollution once again, worsened by post-Diwali smog and stubble burning in neighbouring states with the onset of winter.
On Tuesday morning, residents woke up to cloudy skies and thick haze, with the city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) at 305, categorised as “very poor.” Data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) showed that 27 of 38 monitoring stations reported similar conditions.
Officials said the cloud seeding is part of Delhi’s broader winter anti-pollution strategy and will be implemented in several phases. The Delhi Cabinet had approved five trials in May this year, allocating ₹3.21 crore for the project.
However, unfavourable weather repeatedly delayed the operation — from May-end to June, then to August, September, and mid-October — before finally taking off this week.