Abstract
In October 2025, Delhi conducted its first cloud seeding trials to induce artificial rain and mitigate severe post-Diwali air pollution (AQI ~300ā400). 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 (10ā20%). This study examines the experimentās outcomes, challenges, and implications for Delhiās pollution crisis.
1. Introduction
- Background: Delhiās geography and winter inversions trap pollutants, worsening air quality.
- Objective: Assess cloud seedingās 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 500ā6,000 meters; required moisture: 50ā60% (actual: 10ā20%).
- 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 221ā207 (Mayur Vihar), 230ā206 (Karol Bagh).
- Cost: ā¹3.21 crore for 5 trials (ā¹1 lakh/sq. km).
4. Challenges
- Meteorological: Dry winter air; unsuitable clouds.
- Technical: Attribution uncertainty; short-term relief.
- Environmental: Chemical risks to soil/water.
- Criticism: āGimmickā; neglects root causes (stubble burning, vehicles).
5. Expert Insights
- Dr. Akshay Deoras (Univ. of Reading): āSeeding works only during western disturbances.ā
- IIT Kanpur: āSOS measure, not a permanent solution.ā
- Environmentalists: Address pollution sources, not symptoms.
6. Government Response
- Plan: 9ā10 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.

ā TL;DR
Delhiās cloud seeding trials (Oct 2025) faced moisture deficits, offering temporary AQI relief but no rain. Experts urge holistic solutions.
References
- Outlook India (October 28, 2025)
- The Hindu (October 29, 2025)
- India TV News (October 28, 2025)
- Rediff News (October 29, 2025)
- Firstpost (October 29, 2025)
Writer
Dr. Swarnlata Panchal
Associate Professor, Department of Medical Biotechnology
Director ā International Affairs, NIMS University Jaipur, India
Honorary Scientist ā Community Medicine, AIIMS India
Director ā Nicole Ed Pvt. Ltd. (Medical Education)
PhD (Medical Biotechnology) | MBA (International Business)
š Nicole Ed Pvt. Ltd. | Healthcare Researcher & Education Leader
š Based on ongoing developments and discussions during the October 2025 Healthcare Summit, Delhi.
