Delhi Under Attack? Inside the DGFC’s Emergency Response Plan

Hello friends! For years, you might have heard that Delhi plans to conduct artificial rain, and now, it seems that the plan is finally about to be implemented. The pollution level in Delhi has reached the “severe” category, and to tackle this, the government is preparing to induce rainfall artificially. This could bring some relief to Delhiites as reports suggest that the operation may take place next week.

Let me first tell you — the trial for artificial rain has already been completed, and the operation is expected to take place soon. But the main question is — what exactly is artificial rain? Does it mean that clouds will suddenly appear and heavy rainfall will begin? There are many misconceptions about this, so let’s understand the science behind it.

What Is Artificial Rain or Cloud Seeding?

Delhi is preparing for its first-ever artificial rain, which is conducted through a process known as cloud seeding. The aim is to reduce air pollution during winter, when smog levels are extremely high.

This initiative is being jointly carried out by the Delhi Government and the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur. The goal is to trigger rainfall to suppress suspended pollutants, particularly PM 2.5 particles, which are the fine dust and pollutants that harm our lungs. When it rains, these particles settle on the ground, improving the air we breathe.

The operation window for artificial rain is set for three days — from October 28 to October 30, with October 29 being the most probable date, depending on the weather, cloud cover, and humidity.

How Will the Artificial Rain Be Conducted?

The process involves an aircraft called Cessna, equipped with flares containing seeding agents like silver iodide or sodium chloride (salt). These substances are released into clouds to stimulate rainfall.

The DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation) has already granted clearance for this operation.

Now, what is the science behind this?

Cloud seeding is a process that artificially stimulates precipitation. Microscopic particles, known as seeding agents, are released into existing clouds — but remember, if there are no clouds, cloud seeding cannot create rain. Clouds must already exist; the process only enhances the chance of rain from them.

These particles act as condensation nuclei or ice-forming nuclei, encouraging water vapour to condense into larger droplets, which then fall as rain.

Types of Cloud Seeding

There are two main mechanisms:

1. Glaciogenic Seeding – Used for supercooled clouds (below 0°C). The seeding agent used is silver iodide.

2. Hygroscopic Seeding – Used for warm clouds (above 0°C). The seeding agent used is salt (sodium chloride).

Sometimes, both agents are used in combination, depending on atmospheric conditions.

The Cessna aircraft either flies inside the cloud or just below it (around 2–4 km altitude), releasing the flares. These flares disperse fine aerosol particles that stimulate condensation or freezing, ultimately causing rain.

Monitoring and Verification

The process is scientifically monitored using weather radars, satellite images, and rain gauges. Measurements are taken to check changes in rainfall and pollution levels (PM 2.5 and PM 10).

Globally, over 50 countries have tried cloud seeding, with studies showing rainfall increases between 0–20% under suitable conditions. However, results vary depending on temperature, cloud depth, and moisture levels.

For example:

• China and UAE have long-term cloud seeding programs.

• The United States uses it in western states to increase rainfall.

Verification is crucial because even if it rains, it’s difficult to confirm whether the rain occurred naturally or due to cloud seeding. Hence, various sensors and chemical samplers are used to monitor and verify outcomes.

Weather and Technical Requirements

• Minimum cloud depth: 3 kilometers.

• Relative humidity: above 80%.

• Favorable wind conditions are necessary.

If the sky is dry or clouds are insufficient during the operation window (October 28–30), rain may not occur.
Even if successful, rainfall may be localized, not citywide — it could rain in some areas but not others.

Health and Environmental Concerns

Some concerns exist regarding the use of silver iodide. While salt is harmless, silver iodide is insoluble and persistent. However, scientists clarify that the amount used is minimal, far below the WHO’s safety limits for water, and poses no short-term health risk.

That said, if such operations were conducted regularly, potential long-term environmental impacts (like soil contamination or bioaccumulation) would need monitoring. Hence, regulatory oversight from DGCA and environmental authorities is essential.

Expected Impact

If successful, the artificial rain could bring temporary relief from pollution. Air quality might improve briefly, but unless emissions from vehicles, crop burning, and construction are controlled, pollution levels could rise again within a few days.

So, this is more of a short-term measure, not a permanent solution. Still, it’s a historic first for Delhi, and the results will provide valuable data for future pollution control strategies.

In summary:
Delhi is about to witness its first experiment with artificial rain between October 28 and 30, most likely on October 29, led by IIT Kanpur and the Delhi Government. The operation will test whether cloud seeding can provide temporary respite from the city’s toxic air.

It’s a hopeful step — but a reminder that the real solution lies in cutting emissions and sustainable policy action, not just artificial interventions.