Delhi's Rainmaking Hope: Cloud Seeding Trials Resume

Authorities in Delhi are considering artificial rain as a measure against persistent air pollution, with IIT Kanpur seeking approval for cloud seeding trials. These proposed trials are scheduled to occur between April and June, aiming to leverage pre-monsoon conditions for potentially better results. This initiative follows earlier attempts that did not yield the desired rainfall.

The first major cloud seeding project in Delhi was initiated last year as an emergency response to peak pollution episodes, a collaboration between the Delhi government and IIT Kanpur. After facing delays, two trials took place in late October 2025. Specialized aircraft released substances like silver iodide and salts into the clouds, but failed to trigger precipitation.

IIT Kanpur's assessment identified low moisture content as the primary reason for the unsuccessful outcomes, highlighting that the atmospheric conditions were not conducive to rain. Experts consistently emphasize that cloud seeding requires existing sufficient cloud mass and humidity to be effective. Another round of trials was reportedly conducted earlier this year. Cloud seeding is viewed by experts as a short-term, supplementary intervention that can only offer temporary relief under favourable weather conditions.