Artificial Rain In Delhi Soon? Gopal Rai Seeks Centre's Nod For Cloud Seeding As Air Quality Worsens

New Delhi: Environment Minister Gopal Rai on Tuesday urged the Centre to permit artificial rain as a countermeasure as pollution levels in Delhi continue to exceed dangerous limits. Rai criticised the Centre for its inaction during a press conference, claiming that repeated requests regarding artificial rain in the national capital had not been fulfilled. The Delhi government has imposed strict regulations, such as bans on trucks and private vehicles, as part of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage IV. "Delhi is under GRAP (Graded Response Action Plan) Stage IV restrictions, and we are taking every possible step to reduce vehicular and industrial pollution. Restrictions have been imposed on private vehicles and trucks, aiming to curb the number of vehicles entering the city.

"We are consulting specialists to explore measures to reduce the smog. One of the solutions under consideration is artificial rain, which can help settle pollutants and clear the air," Rai said.The minister said that the state and central authorities must work together, and suggested to call an urgent conference with specialists from IIT Kanpur, who are well-known for their research on artificial rain technology.He also accused the BJP-led central government of neglecting its responsibilities. "If the central government cannot act, then their Environment minister should resign" Rai stated, quoted PTI. He went on to slam the BJL-ruled states for not implementing GRAP-4 restrictions and called for a uniform implementation throughout northern India."The Delhi government is ready to cooperate, but the Centre must lead by taking decisive steps," Rai added. Delhi Air Crisis: SC's Big OrderOn Monday, the Supreme Court came heavily on the Delhi government and Centre's Commission of Air Quality Management (CAQM) asking them why there was a delay in invoking GRAP-4 restrictions. The court further ordered the Delhi government to not withdraw without court's order, even if it falls below 450.The apex court also instructed the NCR states to enforce GRAP-4 to curb pollution. Delhi air quality on Tuesday crossed the 500 mark in several areas falling into 'severe plus' category. Delhi's worsening air quality has led to a political blamegame as well with the capital's AAP government and the Centre putting each other responsible for the deteriorating situation.