Delhi plans artificial rain to combat severe air pollution and rising health issues

Delhi's Environment Minister Gopal Rai announced plans to use artificial rain to combat severe air pollution, which has worsened respiratory illnesses. The air quality index (AQI) in some areas has exceeded 400, indicating hazardous conditions. Last year, a similar cloud-seeding initiative was proposed but did not proceed due to unfavorable weather. Doctors report a significant increase in patients with respiratory issues since the Diwali festival, exacerbated by pollution from firecrackers. Delhi has been ranked the world's second most polluted city, following Lahore. The Punjab government has attributed the pollution crisis to emissions from India and plans to address the issue through diplomatic channels.