Overview
- A single‑engine Cessna flew over Burari on October 23 in a trial with IIT Kanpur to check seeding gear, rocket systems and inter‑agency coordination.
- The Delhi environment minister said cloud‑seeding rockets were fired during the test flight over the capital.
- Authorities have not disclosed which chemical was used in the operation, though cloud‑seeding programs often employ agents such as silver iodide.
- PM2.5 levels have remained far above health guidelines after Diwali celebrations, with IQAir reporting up to 56 times the WHO daily limit this week and 24 times in some areas on Friday.
- Scientists cited in the coverage say evidence for mid‑altitude seeding delivering measurable rainfall or pollution relief is limited, and potential environmental and health effects remain uncertain.