CM Gupta eyes cloud seeding to clear Delhi air

A day after Diwali, the national capital woke up blanketed under a thick haze as the Air Quality Index (AQI) plunged to the 'very poor' category, prompting the Delhi government to explore emergency measures including artificial rain to control pollution.

- TDG NETWORK

Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Tuesday said her government was "working proactively" with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to implement cloud seeding operations once suitable conditions arise. “We are taking all possible steps to curb pollution. The plan for artificial rain will be executed after IMD clearance. Meanwhile, we are promoting electric vehicles to improve Delhi's air quality and have set a target to deploy 10,000 electric buses by 2027," the Chief Minister said.

Gupta credited the "responsible behaviour" of Delhiites for keeping pollution "under control" during Diwali, adding that citizens respected the Supreme Court's directive by opting for green crackers. "This Diwali, Delhi saw a positive transformation. The people celebrated responsibly, reflecting faith in a government that respects Sanatan traditions while addressing modern-day needs," she said, while also taking a swipe at the previous regime for "failing to act on pollution" and imposing a "blanket ban" on crackers.