Punjab achieves breakthrough with successful artificial rain experiment

LAHORE: As smog disrupts life across Punjab, the provincial government has announced a groundbreaking success of using locally developed technology to induce artificial rain. The Pakistan Meteorological Department has confirmed the rainfall, marking a significant step in the fight against worsening air quality. 

The experiment, conducted through cloud seeding, resulted in rainfall in Jhelum, Chakwal, Talagang, and Gujar Khan, with meteorologists verifying its success.

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Experts said that the cloud seeding process began around 2 pm, producing rain in Jhelum and Gujar Khan within hours. They added that Lahore could also experience rain as a delayed effect of the operation. 

“This achievement will greatly help in reducing smog levels,” experts said, expressing optimism over the results. 

The project was a collaborative effort involving the Punjab government, the Strategic Plans Division (SPD) of Pakistan’s military, Army Aviation, the Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the state-owned Pakistan Arab Refinery Company (PARCO). 

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Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz lauded the team behind the experiment, hailing it as a moment of pride for the province. “Today, through your dedication, effort, and expertise, Punjab has made history. The entire nation is proud of you,” she said in a statement. 

Senior Provincial Minister Marriyam Aurangzeb also congratulated the public and the team, highlighting the significance of the achievement. “Alhamdulillah, today brings good news in the form of rain,” she said. “Last year, we experimented with artificial rain in collaboration with the United Arab Emirates, but this time, we achieved success entirely with indigenous expertise and technology.” 

The successful experiment signals a major leap forward in Pakistan’s ability to combat air pollution using innovative solutions. With smog becoming an annual crisis, officials hope that advances in artificial rain technology can provide long-term relief for the region.