Delhi plans artificial rain to combat Diwali pollution

The air quality index (AQI) in Delhi has reached 367, classifying it as 'very poor,' with some areas experiencing 'severe' pollution levels. In response, the Delhi government is planning to induce artificial rain if pollution escalates after the Diwali and Chhath Puja festivals. Sources indicate that two trials of artificial rain, utilizing cloud seeding techniques at higher altitudes than previously attempted, have already been conducted near the Delhi Airport within the last fortnight.

Cloud seeding involves introducing substances like silver iodide into clouds to encourage precipitation, aiming to mitigate pollution. However, experts caution that this method addresses the symptom rather than the root cause of pollution, offering only a temporary reduction. The Supreme Court recently allowed the use of certified green firecrackers in Delhi-NCR for limited hours on November 7th and 8th, coinciding with Diwali, before reinstating a complete ban on November 9th. The Commission for Air Quality Management has also implemented Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), imposing various restrictions on construction, diesel generators, and vehicular movement across the region.