In a bold and experimental move to tackle persistent air pollution and dust in the capital, the Delhi government will conduct its first-ever artificial rain or cloud seeding trial between July 4 and July 11, 2025. The operation is being led by IIT Kanpur, in collaboration with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
Delhi's air quality continues to be a serious concern, especially during and after the monsoon months. Despite occasional showers, pollution levels often remain dangerously high, driven by dust, vehicular emissions, and industrial activity. The artificial rain trial is a part of Delhi’s effort to explore scientific methods to clean the air by inducing rainfall, which can help settle airborne pollutants.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has advised that cloud conditions are likely to be favourable between July 4 and 11, offering the right balance of humidity (≥50%) and moisture-laden nimbostratus clouds, which are ideal for cloud seeding. Before July 4, the cloud systems are not expected to support effective precipitation.
This trial represents Delhi’s first scientific attempt to use weather engineering to improve air quality. If successful, cloud seeding could become a seasonal intervention tool, especially during high-pollution episodes. While expectations are cautious, the trial offers a rare opportunity to combine meteorology, environmental science, and governance in the fight against air pollution.
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