Delhi’s Cloud Seeding Trials, October 2025: A Promising yet Challenged Approach to Combat Air Pollution”

Abstract
In October 2025, Delhi conducted its first cloud seeding trials to induce artificial rain and mitigate severe post-Diwali air pollution (AQI ~300–400). Collaborating with IIT Kanpur, the government deployed a Cessna 206H aircraft to disperse silver iodide and sodium chloride into clouds. Despite two trials on October 28, no measurable rainfall occurred due to low atmospheric moisture (10–20%). This study examines the experiment’s outcomes, challenges, and implications for Delhi’s pollution crisis.

1. Introduction

• Background: Delhi’s geography and winter inversions trap pollutants, worsening air quality.
• Objective: Assess cloud seeding’s efficacy as an emergency measure.
• Timeline: Trials conducted on Oct 28, 2025, targeting Burari, Karol Bagh, and Mayur Vihar.

2. Methodology

• Technique: Glaciogenic (silver iodide) and hygroscopic (sodium chloride) seeding.
• Conditions: Clouds at 500–6,000 meters; required moisture: 50–60% (actual: 10–20%).
• Equipment: Modified Cessna aircraft; 16 flares (8 per trial).

3. Results

• Rainfall: 0.1 mm (Noida), 0.2 mm (Greater Noida); none in Delhi.
• AQI Impact: PM2.5 dropped 221→207 (Mayur Vihar), 230→206 (Karol Bagh).
• Cost: ₹3.21 crore for 5 trials (₹1 lakh/sq. km).

4. Challenges

• Meteorological: Dry winter air; unsuitable clouds.
• Technical: Attribution uncertainty; short-term relief.
• Environmental: Chemical risks to soil/water.
• Criticism: “Gimmick”; neglects root causes (stubble burning, vehicles).

5. Expert Insights

• Dr. Akshay Deoras (Univ. of Reading): “Seeding works only during western disturbances.”
• IIT Kanpur: “SOS measure, not a permanent solution.”
• Environmentalists: Address pollution sources, not symptoms.

6. Government Response

• Plan: 9–10 more trials; targeting north Delhi.
• Policies: BS-VI vehicle ban (Nov 1), anti-smog guns.
• Limitations: Regional coordination lacking.

7. Conclusion

Cloud seeding showed marginal short-term benefits but failed to induce rain. Success requires optimal moisture, sustained efforts, and systemic reforms. Delhi must prioritize reducing emissions, not just symptoms.

✅ TL;DR

Delhi’s cloud seeding trials (Oct 2025) faced moisture deficits, offering temporary AQI relief but no rain. Experts urge holistic solutions.

References

1. Outlook India (October 28, 2025)
2. The Hindu (October 29, 2025)
3. India TV News (October 28, 2025)
4. Rediff News (October 29, 2025)
5. Firstpost (October 29, 2025)

Writer

Dr. Swarnlata Panchal

Associate Professor, Department of Medical Biotechnology

Director – International Affairs, NIMS University Jaipur, India

Honorary Scientist – Community Medicine, AIIMS India

Director – Nicole Ed Pvt. Ltd. (Medical Education)

PhD (Medical Biotechnology) | MBA (International Business)

🔗 Nicole Ed Pvt. Ltd. | Healthcare Researcher & Education Leader
📍 Based on ongoing developments and discussions during the October 2025 Healthcare Summit, Delhi.