Delhi is expected to receive light rainfall on Monday and Tuesday, just ahead of the government’s planned cloud seeding operation on October 29. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the city recorded a minimum temperature of 17.3°C, slightly above the seasonal average, while the maximum is likely to hover around 29°C.
The national capital’s air quality remained in the very poor category, with several areas such as Bawana and Anand Vihar recording severe levels of pollution. Out of 38 monitoring stations, 23 reported readings above 300 on Monday morning.
Cloud seeding, a weather modification technique that enhances a cloud’s ability to produce rainfall by dispersing substances such as silver iodide and sodium chloride, is being introduced to counter Delhi’s deteriorating air quality. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta confirmed that preparations are complete and the city is ready to carry out the operation on October 29.
A recent test flight over Burari was conducted to assess the readiness of the aircraft and cloud conditions. Officials stated that while the trial run showed potential, the moisture level at the time was below the required 50%, preventing rainfall. However, the IMD forecast indicates higher moisture availability this week, keeping the cloud seeding schedule on track.
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