IMD approves cloud seeding pilot project

THE India Meteorological Department (IMD) has approved Delhi's pilot project on cloud seeding aimed at mitigating air pollution and all the preparations are complete, Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa said on Wednesday.

- ANUP VERMA @ New Delhi

He said the cloud-seeding flights will take off once favorable weather conditions -- particularly the presence of moisture-laden clouds -- are observed. "All major permissions have been secured. Only minor operational formalities -- such as final flight clearance -- are pending. All preparations are complete. Now we are just waiting for the right clouds to appear. The moment the weather cooperates, Delhi will witness its first artificial rain," Sirsa said. The minister said that the pilot project reflects the government's commitment to clean air. "When we say 'Right to Cl