Delhi is taking an ambitious leap toward cleaner air. From October 7–9, the city will conduct its first-ever cloud seeding trial to reduce air pollution. The initiative marks a major step where weather science meets public health, aiming to explore artificial rain as a possible tool against toxic smog.
The project was officially launched after an agreement between the Delhi government and IIT Kanpur, signed at the Delhi Secretariat. The signing ceremony brought together environmental policymakers, scientists, and senior government officials, signaling strong cooperation between research and governance.
How Cloud Seeding Works
Cloud seeding involves dispersing substances like silver iodide or sodium chloride into clouds to stimulate rainfall. These particles help water droplets cluster and grow large enough to fall as rain. Once the rain begins, it can “wash out” pollutants such as PM2.5 and PM10, temporarily improving air quality.
IIT Kanpur will lead the operation, using a Cessna aircraft equipped with special nozzles to release seeding agents into suitable cloud formations. The flights will be conducted primarily over northwest Delhi, targeting regions most affected by post-harvest smoke and urban pollution.
Project Details and Funding
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has already approved flight permissions for the experiment, which will continue until November 30, depending on weather conditions. The total project cost is estimated at ₹3.2–3.5 crore, covering aircraft deployment, equipment, and atmospheric monitoring systems.
The first phase—scheduled for October 7–9—will focus on testing the method’s feasibility. If conditions are favorable, further trials may take place through the rest of the monsoon transition period. Researchers will track cloud behavior, wind speed, humidity, and rainfall data throughout the process.
Measuring the Impact
To measure success, Delhi’s Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Stations (CAAQMS) will record pollution levels before and after the rainfall. The focus will be on key pollutants—PM2.5, PM10, nitrogen oxides, and sulfur dioxide—to determine how effectively rainfall disperses them.
The Delhi government hopes even light precipitation will help settle dust and airborne particles, offering short-term relief from pollution that worsens every winter. However, scientists emphasize that cloud seeding can only offer temporary benefits and depends heavily on atmospheric conditions.
Potential and Limitations
Experts agree that while cloud seeding is a promising idea, it’s not a permanent fix. Success depends on the availability of moisture-rich clouds, which are not guaranteed during Delhi’s dry months. Additionally, unintended consequences—like excessive rainfall or localized flooding—must be carefully monitored.
Still, the experiment demonstrates Delhi’s willingness to explore innovative environmental solutions. It complements other measures like vehicle emission controls, anti-dust campaigns, and restrictions on construction activities during peak smog periods.
If successful, cloud seeding could become a seasonal intervention tool, used strategically during severe pollution episodes. The results from the October trial will guide whether Delhi expands the program across NCR or collaborates with neighboring states for regional implementation.
A Step Toward Cleaner Skies
The initiative arrives at a critical time, as Delhi prepares for its annual battle with post-harvest stubble burning and stagnant air conditions. While no single action can solve air pollution overnight, combining technology, research, and proactive policy might offer a pathway to healthier air.
For residents of the capital, even a few drops of artificial rain could symbolize a turning point—a city literally looking to the skies for hope.
Source: Outlook Business. (2025, October 5). Delhi Govt, IIT Kanpur to conduct first cloud seeding trial from October 7–9 to tackle air pollution. Outlook Business. https://www.outlookbusiness.com/planet/climate/delhi-cloud-seeding-trial-october-2025
