Cloud-seeding trials conducted in parts of Delhi

with more such exercises planned over the next few days, Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa said. Environmentalists, however, termed the Delhi government's cloud-seeding trial a short-term measure, saying it may temporarily reduce pollution but fails to address the root causes of the capital's deteriorating air quality. According to officials, the aircraft took off from Kanpur for Delhi and covered areas like Burari, north Karol Bagh and Mayur Vihar before landing at the Meerut Airfield.
“The Cessna aircraft took off from Kanpur. It released eight fire flares and the trial lasted for half an hour,” Sirsa said in a video statement. The minister said that IIT-Kanpur has opined that rain could happen within 15 minutes to 4 hours after the trial. The second trial will be conducted later in the day in outer Delhi, he said, adding that nine to ten trials are planned over the next few days.
“This is a huge step taken by the government to mitigate pollution. If trials are successful, we will prepare a long-term plan,” Sirsa added. The trial, aimed at inducing artificial rain to tackle air pollution in the capital, is part of the Delhi government’s broader strategy to mitigate deteriorating air quality during the winter months.
The Delhi government signed a memorandum of understanding with IIT Kanpur on September 25 to carry out five cloud seeding trials, all of which are planned in northwest Delhi. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation earlier granted permission to IIT Kanpur to conduct the trials any time between October 1 and November 30. Clearances have also been secured from more than 10 central and state departments, including the Union ministries of environment, defence and home, the Uttar Pradesh government, the Airports Authority of India, and the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security, among others.The Delhi Cabinet on May 7 approved a proposal to conduct five cloud seeding trials at a total cost of Rs 3.21 crore.