Delhi’s Air Quality and Cloud Seeding Debate

Delhi’s air quality has reached alarming levels, with the average Air Quality Index (AQI) hitting 492. This has prompted the Delhi Environment Minister to propose artificial rain, also known as cloud seeding, as a potential solution. However, the effectiveness and environmental consequences of cloud seeding remain contentious.

About Cloud Seeding

Cloud seeding is a weather modification technique. It involves injecting clouds with substances like silver iodide or sodium chloride. These materials serve as nuclei for water vapour to condense into droplets. Once heavy enough, these droplets fall as rain. This process requires specific atmospheric conditions and suitable cloud types.

Conditions for Effective Cloud Seeding

Successful cloud seeding necessitates sufficient cloud cover and specific cloud characteristics. The clouds must have adequate moisture and depth. Without these conditions, cloud seeding cannot occur. Typically, winter western disturbances create the right environment for cloud formation over Delhi.

Effectiveness of Cloud Seeding

Research on cloud seeding shows mixed results. Studies indicate that its effectiveness can vary widely. Some findings suggest that precipitation increases by 0% to 20%. This variability often depends on natural conditions that favour precipitation. Therefore, cloud seeding is not a guaranteed solution.

Environmental and Ethical Concerns

The chemicals used in cloud seeding pose environmental risks. Substances like silver iodide can accumulate in soil and water, potentially harming agriculture and ecosystems. Additionally, ethical concerns arise from the manipulation of weather patterns. Diverting rainfall could lead to droughts in other regions, affecting their water supply.

Temporary Relief from Pollution

While cloud seeding can wash away pollutants like PM2.5 and PM10, it does not address all air quality issues. Other harmful pollutants, such as ozone and sulphur dioxide, remain unaffected by rainfall. Thus, cloud seeding may provide only a short-term solution to Delhi’s persistent air pollution.

Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP)

The Graded Response Action Plan is a set of emergency measures designed to improve air quality. It is activated when pollution levels reach critical thresholds. Despite these measures, the ongoing air quality crisis marks the need for more comprehensive strategies to tackle pollution in urban areas.

Future Considerations

The ongoing discussions about cloud seeding and air quality in Delhi reflect broader environmental challenges. Policymakers must weigh the potential benefits against the risks and uncertainties associated with artificial rain. Sustainable solutions are essential for long-term improvements in air quality.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Examine the role of technology in addressing urban air pollution challenges.
2. Discuss the implications of weather modification techniques like cloud seeding on regional climates.
3. Critically discuss the effectiveness of emergency measures in improving air quality during pollution crises.
4. With suitable examples, discuss the environmental impacts of chemical substances used in weather modification processes.

Answer Hints:

1. Examine the role of technology in addressing urban air pollution challenges.

1. Technological innovations such as air quality monitoring systems provide real-time data, aiding in pollution management.
2. Advanced filtration systems and air purifiers can reduce indoor air pollution .
3. Smart city initiatives integrate data analytics to optimize traffic flow, reducing vehicular emissions.
4. Renewable energy technologies can replace fossil fuels, decreasing overall urban emissions.
5. Research and development in sustainable materials can lead to less pollution in manufacturing processes.

2. Discuss the implications of weather modification techniques like cloud seeding on regional climates.

1. Cloud seeding can alter precipitation patterns, potentially leading to droughts in areas that would have naturally received rain.
2. The introduction of chemicals like silver iodide raises concerns about soil and water contamination.
3. Regional climates may experience changes in temperature and humidity due to altered weather patterns.
4. Cloud seeding might provide temporary relief from droughts but could also create dependency on artificial interventions.
5. Long-term effects on local ecosystems are still uncertain, necessitating further research.

3. Critically discuss the effectiveness of emergency measures in improving air quality during pollution crises.

1. Emergency measures like the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) are designed to mitigate immediate pollution spikes.
2. Effectiveness varies; measures may reduce pollution levels temporarily but not address root causes.
3. Public compliance and enforcement of regulations are crucial for the success of these measures.
4. Long-term strategies must accompany emergency measures for sustainable air quality improvement.
5. Case studies from other cities can provide vital information about best practices and potential pitfalls.

4. With suitable examples, discuss the environmental impacts of chemical substances used in weather modification processes.

1. Chemicals like silver iodide can accumulate in ecosystems, affecting plant growth and aquatic life.
2. Studies show potential toxicity of these substances in high concentrations, impacting agricultural productivity.
3. Historical examples, such as the use of cloud seeding in the USA, reveal both benefits and unintended ecological consequences.
4. Long-term monitoring is necessary to assess the cumulative effects of these chemicals on biodiversity.
5. Regulatory frameworks are needed to manage the use of chemicals in weather modification to minimize environmental harm.