Delhi to Conduct First-Ever Artificial Rain Trial to Tackle Air Pollution Between July 4–11
New Delhi | June 30, 2025: In a pioneering move to combat air pollution, the Delhi government is preparing to conduct its first-ever artificial rain trial through cloud seeding between July 4 and 11, subject to favourable weather conditions. The project is being led by IIT Kanpur, with technical and meteorological coordination from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and permission from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
This innovative step, titled “Technology Demonstration and Evaluation of Cloud Seeding as an Alternative for Delhi NCR Pollution Mitigation,” will involve five aircraft sorties targeting low-security air zones in northwest and outer Delhi. Each sortie, lasting about 90 minutes, will spray a mixture of silver iodide nanoparticles, iodised salt, and rock salt into moisture-laden clouds to induce artificial rainfall.
The project is expected to cost approximately ₹3.21 crore.
How Will It Work?
The rain-inducing substance, developed by IIT Kanpur, will be released via a special flare system onboard the aircraft. This compound accelerates raindrop formation within clouds, leading to precipitation. IIT Kanpur has already demonstrated success in seven similar cloud seeding experiments earlier this year in drought-prone regions.
What Experts Say
The IMD has confirmed meteorological feasibility for the trial, and IIT Kanpur has submitted a detailed flight plan to IMD Pune. Conditions on July 3 were not suitable, but a flight window between July 4 and 11 remains under watch.
Delhi’s Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa highlighted the significance of this operation, saying, “We aim to give Delhiites clean air. That’s why we’re taking this bold step of artificial rain.”
The initiative is being conducted under the leadership of Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and marks a historic step in urban air quality management. Delhi, which often faces severe pollution—particularly during winters—is among the most polluted cities in India.
Authorities have urged residents to stay informed through official updates and support this experimental but promising method of pollution control.
