Sat Nov 01 15:14:50 UTC 2025: ## IIT Kanpur’s Cloud Seeding Experiment Fails to Bring Relief to Delhi’s Air

NEW DELHI, November 1, 2025 – A cloud seeding experiment conducted by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur on October 28th failed to produce artificial rain in Delhi, despite the city’s “poor” air quality. The experiment, aimed at improving air quality, involved firing 10 kg of a silver iodide, salt, and rock salt mixture into the clouds.

Despite the India Meteorological Department (IMD) indicating insufficient cloud cover for artificial rain, IIT Kanpur proceeded with the trial, citing a desire to test the efficacy of their “proprietary solution.” Manindra Agrawal, Director of IIT-Kanpur, acknowledged prior negative feedback from other institutions like IITM and IMD regarding the feasibility of cloud seeding for winter pollution. However, he defended the experiment, pointing to success in other countries like China and the UAE.

The IMD clarified that while cloud data was shared, no specific advice was given, as previous cloud seeding experiments by the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) have yielded inconclusive results. Experts emphasize that cloud seeding is only effective on “warm clouds” with existing water vapor, primarily during the monsoon season.

This attempt is the latest in a series of initiatives, including smog towers and vehicle restrictions, explored by the Delhi government to combat air pollution. Past cloud seeding proposals have been rejected by the central government due to the absence of suitable cloud conditions during Delhi’s dry winter months.

Despite the setback, IIT-Kanpur has received approval for further trials this season, with the support of Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sira. Dr. Agrawal believes that even a slight reduction in air pollution could be a worthwhile outcome, arguing that winter cloud seeding is a cost effective method that is worth the experiment. The results are still being analysed and it’s too early to tell if the current strategy will be successful.

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