Cloud-Seeding Trials Across NCR

Context

The Delhi Cabinet authorised a Rs 3.21-crore undertaking for carrying out five cloud-seeding trials throughout the National Capital Region (NCR) amid the fight against pollution.

What is Cloud Seeding?

• Cloud seeding is a climate change method aimed at improving precipitation from clouds by introducing substances that act as cloud condensation or ice nuclei.
• Method: Aircraft or rockets disperse seeding agents like silver iodide, potassium iodide, or dry ice (stable carbon dioxide), or liquid propane into the environment.
• Purpose: Stimulate rainfall, lessen dirt, suppress hailstorms, and improve air quality by settling particulates.

Suitable Conditions for Cloud Seeding

• Cloud seeding demands existing clouds; it’s going to not produce rain out of thin air.
• Not all patterns of clouds are suitable for seeding. Clouds need to be deep enough and of a suitable temperature (between -10 and -12 degree Celsius) to be seeded correctly.
• The wind should be under a certain velocity. These conditions are most common in mountainous regions.

Concerns with Cloud Seeding

• Use of Chemicals: Some chemicals are potentially harmful to the natural environment. There is a subject about soil and water contamination, specially affecting flowers and vegetation that rely on rainwater for nourishment.
• Redistribution of Rainfall: Artificially inducing rainfall in one location may also deprive adjoining areas of their natural precipitation, probably triggering drought-like situations some place else.
• High Cost: Cloud seeding demands specialised aircraft, meteorological knowledge, and precision timing, making it a value-extensive initiative.

Concluding comments

• Cloud seeding offers a scientific method to mitigate the immediate effect of air pollution in NCR, especially during vital months. 
• However, it must be a part of a multi-pronged method concerning emissions control, green infrastructure, and public health measures.

Source: The Indian Express

UPSC Prelims Practice Question

Q. In the context of which of the following do some scientists suggest the use of cirrus cloud thinning technique and the injection of sulphate aerosol into stratosphere? (2019)

(a) Creating the artificial rains in some regions 

(b) Reducing the frequency and intensity of tropical cyclones 

(c) Reducing the adverse effects of solar wind on the Earth 

(d) Reducing the global warming

Ans: (d)

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