Cloud Seeding and Air Pollution in North India: A Critical Perspective
Delhi's proposal for cloud seeding to combat air pollution has sparked debate about its scientific validity and ethical implications.
Current Air Quality Challenges
- The air quality in North India is consistently poor, especially post-monsoon and winter.
- During these seasons, the region experiences stagnant air and stable, high-pressure systems that trap pollutants.
- Brief rains due to western disturbances are sporadic and not a reliable solution to pollution.
Cloud Seeding: Misapplied Science
- Limitations:
- Cloud seeding requires existing clouds and cannot create them.
- Its effectiveness in increasing rainfall is debated and offers only temporary pollution relief.
- Environmental Concerns:
- Involves dispersing substances like silver iodide, posing potential risks to health and ecosystems.
- Long-term impacts of these substances remain unclear.
Ethical and Governance Issues
- Accountability:
- Potential public backlash if cloud seeding coincides with adverse weather events.
- Questions of responsibility if cloud seeding leads to unintended consequences.
- Misallocation of Resources:
- Diversion of attention from effective, evidence-based solutions such as cleaner transport and sustainable energy.
- Risk of undermining public trust in science and governance.
Real Solutions to Air Pollution
- Regulation of emissions from vehicles, industries, and waste management.
- Promotion of sustainable energy and urban planning.
- Need for courage and commitment to implement systemic changes for long-term air quality improvement.
Overall, addressing air pollution in North India requires genuine, systemic policy changes rather than temporary, unscientific measures like cloud seeding.