Capital ready for its first spell of artificial rain after successful trial: CM, Pg7.

Key Highlights:

• Delhi is set for its first artificial rain via cloud seeding between October 28-30, weather permitting.
• A successful cloud seeding trial flight was conducted jointly by IIT Kanpur and the Delhi government's Environment department.
• Flares containing silver iodide and sodium chloride were fired during the trial near Burari.
• The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has granted permission for cloud seeding operations in Delhi between October 1 and November 30.

Detailed Insights:

• The cloud seeding trial involved a four-hour operation to test aircraft readiness and equipment using the pyro method.
• Delhi's Environment Minister stated that all technical trials are complete, and the city is technically ready for artificial rainfall.
• The government plans to add 70 new mechanised sweepers, 70 additional anti-smog guns, and 140 litter pickers to combat air pollution.
• Delhi's air quality remained in the 'very poor' category with an average AQI of 322, prompting intensified actions in high-AQI hotspots.
• Cloud seeding requires the presence of clouds and was postponed from July due to prolonged monsoon conditions.

Scientific/Technical Concepts Involved:

• Cloud Seeding: A weather modification technique to increase precipitation by dispersing substances into the air that serve as cloud condensation or ice nuclei.
• Silver Iodide: A chemical compound used in cloud seeding as an ice nucleating agent.
• Sodium Chloride: Common salt, also used in cloud seeding to attract water vapor and promote cloud formation.
• AQI (Air Quality Index): A measure of air quality based on concentrations of pollutants like particulate matter and ozone.