Experts say cloud seeding is not a long-term solution

Two rounds of cloud-seeding trials were carried out over the city, bringing the total to three so far—but not even a trace of rainfall was recorded.

- Jasjeev Gandhiok

Experts on Tuesday said the Delhi government must tackle sector-specific sources of emissions to improve air quality and provide reprieve from the annual winter pollution, instead of relying on “quick-fix” solutions in an attempt to bring artificial rain.

They said the attempts at cloud seeding are a costly and largely ineffective experiment that distracts from tackling the real sources of pollution. While the idea of inducing artificial rain to wash away smog often resurfaces during peak pollution episodes, scientists and air quality specialists say such interventions have little scientific basis.

Sunil Dahiya, founder and lead analyst at think-tank Envirocatalysts, said that addressing air quality requires tackling sector-specific emissions from transport, power, and construction, without which no real impact can be achieved. “Cosmetic measures, such as smog towers, anti-smog guns, or cloud seeding may create short-term visibility benefits but are not sustainable solutions. The focus should instead be on coordinated action across states and agencies through an airshed-based approach that targets the actual sources of pollution,” he said.