Artificial rain expected in Lahore on Nov 29: How is it generated?

LAHORE: The caretaker Punjab government on Thursday, announced its plans to conduct artificial rain in Lahore on November 29.

Is November 29 the confirmed date for artificial rain in Lahore?

No, the occurrence of artificial rain through cloud seeding is contingent on the presence of moisture-filled clouds, and their availability or predictability is not guaranteed. If favourable cloud conditions are met on November 29, artificial rain may take place.

Punjab notifies anti-smog plan: school closures, market, and office restrictions announced

How is artificial rain generated, and what technology is employed in the process?

Artificial rain, also known as cloud seeding is induced by dispersing salt over clouds. Given that rainfall typically results from the convergence of oppositely charged clouds—owing to the colloidal nature and inherent charge of clouds—spraying silver iodide, an electrolyte, serves as a catalyst for artificial rain. Occasionally, electrified sand is also utilized to achieve the same objective.

What are the advantages of artificial rain?

Artificial precipitation plays a crucial role in mitigating air pollution by effectively diminishing the levels of dust, smoke, smog, haze, and chemicals in the atmosphere.

Additionally, it stands as a viable approach to enhance rainfall in regions facing a deficit, offering a potential solution to improve overall precipitation quantities.

Smog crisis in Lahore

Lahore is presently grappling with an enduring smog crisis that is adversely affecting the well-being and livelihoods of millions of its residents. On Thursday, November 23, Lahore’s Air Quality Index (AQI) surged to 321. During the morning hours, the AQI exceeded 500, reaching a hazardous level.

In response to the smog, the Punjab government has introduced measures, including a smog-related holiday in educational institutions on Friday and Saturday.

جمعہ اور ہفتہ کو تعلیمی ادارے بند رہیں گے!

وزیراعلیٰ @MohsinnaqviC42 نے لاہور سمیت 6 ڈویژنز کے تعلیمی اداروں میں جمعے اور ہفتے کی عام تعطیل کا اعلان کر دیا pic.twitter.com/7HFF3XvwF6

— Government of Punjab (@GovtofPunjabPK) November 23, 2023