Cloud Seeding: Potential Solution for Rainfall Deficiency in India

Cloud seeding offers a viable and scientifically proven method to induce artificial rain and address rainfall deficiencies.

 

We are now almost halfway through the annual monsoon season and the rainfall patterns continue to show large variability. There exists the distinct possibility of deficient rainfall over the country. Until now, nine states have had deficient rainfall, while only six states have received normal or excess precipitation. (Ref: IMD, see image below)

Consider the situation in Maharashtra; although parts of the state, including cities like Mumbai, Kolhapur, and Nagpur have been drenched by heavy rains, districts such as Nasik, Aurangabad, and Jalgaon have shown significant rainfall deficit. 

The deficient and uneven distribution of rainfall has also resulted in extremely low water levels in dams across Maharashtra. 

 

See Table below:

One potential solution to this problem is cloud seeding, a form of weather modification that can induce artificial rain, given the right cloud formations / conditions. This technology, though available for a long time the world over, remains un-utilized in India. The last time cloud seeding was under serious consideration was in the year 2012. In the past 12 years, there have been no efforts by the government to seriously consider cloud seeding to mitigate the rainfall deficiencies. Not one single time!

 

What is Cloud Seeding?

 

Cloud seeding involves dispersing silver iodide into the air which helps formation of nuclei for water condensation or formation of water droplets, leading to small-scale weather modification within the cloud. The water droplets gradually increase in size to fall down as precipitation or rainfall.
The process can be performed using aircraft fitted with devices to disperse silver iodide solution. It can also be done using ground-based generators, which release the seeding material into the atmosphere. Once these particles reach the clouds, they stimulate the formation of rain droplets, increasing the likelihood of precipitation.

 

See representational image below: 

 

Proven Positive Results

 
The efficacy of cloud seeding has been demonstrated in various parts of the world. Countries like the United States, China, Australia and UAE have successfully employed this technique to enhance rainfall and alleviate droughts. China has an extensive cloud seeding program, which is said to have increased precipitation by up to 10-15% in target areas, especially catchment areas of dams and water reservoirs.

 

Environmental Impact of Cloud seeding 

 

Cloud seeding can significantly impact ecosystems in the region. The point to note is, the impact is positive. Impact includes, changes in precipitation patterns, modifications to water bodies and ground water levels, and disturbance in natural habitats of animals.

Need for Immediate Action

 
Maybe we should consult China or the UAE, or maybe we have enough expertise, but no intent. There is an urgent need for targeted action right now to increase the chances of success. The satellite imagery from IMD shows there is very good cloud cover now, which can have positive results. Delaying efforts until August when there is sparse cloud cover, would only aggravate the situation, leading to further water scarcity and suffering for the agricultural sector.
Additionally, investing time and money into cloud seeding technology and infrastructure can help India solve the problem of unpredictable monsoons. A strong cloud seeding program by the government will not only address the current deficit, but will enable us to prepare for rainfall shortage in the future.

Save water, save lives

Peregrine Falcon

Falco peregrinus

(Latin name for Perigine Falcon)
Size: 38-48cm

Features:

The falcon is a sizable bird, featuring a distinctive dark hood, striking white throat and cheek. Dark patches adorn the sides of its beak. The body is characterized by a dark grey hue, with white and black barred abdomen.

There exist several sub-species of this falcon, each adapted to the country of residence. The migratory variant captured in these pictures have a slightly lighter grey body.

They are solitary birds and skilled aerial hunters; either by scanning the terrain from air, or patiently observing from a lookout post, before striking with great speed.

Habitat: 

Chiefly near wetlands, or grassy plains near rivers. Occasionally found near urban habitations.

Food: 

Feeds on pigeons, doves, small birds, occasional rabbits and hare.

Picture location: 

Nandur Madhmeshwar Bird Sanctuary.

“One of the first conditions of happiness is that the link between man and nature shall not be broken.”
—Leo Tolstoy

Indian Highways and Railways: Their Role in Increased Waste Generation and Environmental Degradation

Development of new highways and railway routes in India has contributed to an increase in waste generation, pollution and environmental degradation.

Indian Highways and Railways

The development of new highways and train routes in India has indeed played a significant role in improving connectivity and enhancing human interactions within the country. Improved connectivity in both rural and urban areas, has allowed people to travel for work, education, healthcare, tourism, and other purposes. The new expressways reduce travel time and enhance transport efficiency, connecting major cities and regions, promoting business and trade, tourism, and cultural exchange between people of different states. 

Ahmednagar Solapur Highway

Solapur Akkalkot Highway

Raichur Mantralayam Highway

Yadgir Kalburgi Highway

But it has also come with a cost to the environment.

One of the biggest challenges posed by the expansion of highways and railways is the increase in waste generation. With more people traveling and businesses operating along these routes, there is a greater demand for goods and services, which leads to more packaging waste and other forms of litter.

In addition, the construction of highways and railways often involves the clearing of forests and other natural areas, which can displace wildlife and disrupt ecosystems. This can lead to further environmental degradation, as well as the release of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.

Another major concern is the increased use of single-use plastics along highways and railways. These plastics are often not disposed of properly, and they can end up polluting the environment. For example, plastic bags and bottles can be found strewn along roadsides and railway tracks, and they can also end up in rivers and oceans, where they can harm marine life.

Large quantities of waste and plastic is also dumped into our rivers and water bodies as part of religious ceremonies.
In addition, the presence of highways and railways can have adverse impact on wildlife by interrupting migration routes and dividing natural habitats into smaller, fragmented sections.

This article is restricted to discussing the link between railways / highways, generation of waste and possible mitigating measures.

Key factors contributing to pollution

Lack of proper waste management:

Many areas along highways and train routes lack effective waste management infrastructure, including garbage bins, waste collection systems, and recycling facilities. In the absence of proper disposal options, people may resort to littering or burning waste, leading to environmental pollution.

It is very common to see individuals disposing off their waste inappropriately by throwing it out of car windows / train windows or in public areas. Improper waste disposal has several negative impacts on the environment, including pollution, harm to wildlife, and the degradation of natural ecosystems. Look at the borders of our busy highways. You will see all types of waste and plastic striven over the entire route.

Increased consumption of single-use plastics: 

With improved connectivity and introduction of newer trains like the Tejas Express and Vande Bharat Express, there is a huge demand for convenience products like single-use plastic bottles, food packaging, ready-mix sachets of tea/ coffee cups, cutlery and other disposable items. These items are often discarded carelessly and contribute significantly to plastic pollution. 

Mumbai Sainagar Shirdi Vande Bharat Express

The main sources of plastic waste in the railway corridors are passengers, vendors, and construction activities. Passengers often litter the tracks and platforms with plastic bags, bottles, and food wrappers. Vendors who sell food and drinks on the platforms also contribute to the problem by using single-use plastic cups and plates. Construction activities in and around the railway stations also generate a lot of plastic waste, such as plastic sheets, pipes, and polypropylene bags.
According to a 2020 report by the Central Railway, around 1,000 tonnes of plastic waste is generated every day in the railway corridors of Mumbai. Of this, around 600 tonnes is generated by the Western Railway and 400 tonnes by the Central Railway. The report also found that around 80% of this waste is not recycled and ends up in landfills or the ocean.
According to a recent report, IRCTC alone supplies 400,000 bottles of water in disposable plastic to the railways, every single day.

Limited awareness and education: 

Many individuals may not be fully aware of the environmental impact of plastic pollution or the importance of responsible waste management. Lack of education and awareness programs can contribute to improper disposal practices and littering.

Unregulated Growth of Dhabas:

The development of infrastructure has led to a proliferation of dhabas (road-side eateries) along these newly constructed routes.
The issue at hand is the lack of effective control exercised by authorities over such dhabas. With minimal oversight, many of them compromise on hygiene standards, disposal of waste, both solid and liquid, posing a significant threat to the environment. This further exacerbates the pollution problem in the surroundings.

Addressing the Challenges

The good news is that there are a number of things that can be done to address these environmental challenges. It is essential to adopt a multi-faceted approach that combines education, policy interventions, and community participation to effectively address the issue of plastic pollution resulting from the expansion of highways and train routes in India.
Potential solutions that can be considered are elaborated below:

Strengthening of waste management systems:

The government should invest in improving waste management infrastructure along highways and train routes, including garbage bins, waste collection and segregation systems, and recycling facilities. 

Promoting sustainable alternatives: 

Encouraging the use of eco-friendly alternatives to single-use plastics, such as reusable water bottles, cloth bags, and biodegradable packaging, can help reduce plastic waste.

Increased public awareness campaigns:  

Conducting education and awareness programs on the environmental impact of plastic pollution and the importance of responsible waste disposal can help change behaviour and promote responsible practices. While Swachh Bharat campaign / Clean City competition, initiated by PM Narendra Modi, have been quite successful, there should be more concerted efforts in ensuring cleanliness throughout the country. Local bodies like municipal corporations, zilla parishads and village panchayats can play a more effective role in such campaigns.

Implementing stricter regulations: 

Enforcing regulations on the use and disposal of plastic products, such as banning certain single-use plastics, especially at the retail level or imposing enhanced penalties for stocking plastic bags and littering, can help deter improper waste disposal.

Community participation: 

Engaging local communities, NGOs, and other organizations in waste management initiatives can create a sense of responsibility and ownership, leading to better waste management practices.

Measures by Railways

The railway authorities have taken some measures to address the problem of plastic waste, such as installing dustbins and recycling bins on the platforms and restrictions on the use of single-use plastic on trains. However, more needs to be done to reduce the amount of plastic waste generated in the railway corridors.
Many times, authorities are forced to reverse certain steps taken to control pollution. Here is an example: a circular imposing a ban on all plastic bags and food items wrapped in plastic was issued to all railway stall owners on May 21, 2012, by CR General Manager. It was however, revoked within 40 days due to pressure from activists and the plastic lobby.

Few suggestions to reduce plastic waste in the railway corridors of Mumbai:

Revisiting Plastic Bans: Reintroducing and enforcing plastic bans, along with incentivizing vendors to adopt sustainable materials, can significantly reduce plastic waste in railway corridors.

Collaboration with Construction Companies: Partnering with construction companies to minimize plastic waste during infrastructure development can contribute to sustainable practices.

Enhanced Recycling Infrastructure: Expanding the network of recycling centers and facilitating passenger access to recycling facilities can further aid waste reduction.

Do Individual Efforts Make a Difference?

While it's true that the scale of global waste and carbon emissions can seem overwhelming, one must never consider that individual efforts to reduce carbon footprints are futile and worthless. You can help in the following ways:
Bring your own reusable bags and water bottles when you travel.
Refuse single-use plastic items whenever possible.
Dispose of your waste properly.
Educate others about the importance of waste reduction and recycling.
Support businesses that are committed to sustainability.

Here are a few reasons why individual actions are worth the effort:

Collective Impact: When many individuals make sustainable choices, their combined efforts can have a significant impact. Small changes in daily habits, such as reducing energy consumption, recycling, using public transportation, or adopting sustainable diets, can add up to substantial emissions reductions when multiplied across millions of people.

Inspirational Influence: Individual actions have the ability to inspire others to make sustainable choices. Leading by example and demonstrating that it is possible to live a low-carbon lifestyle, individuals can influence their friends, family, and communities at large.

Driving Demand for Change: As more people adopt sustainable practices, there is increased public demand for eco-friendly products and services. This, in turn, can influence businesses and policymakers to prioritize sustainability and adopt more environmentally friendly practices and policies.

Personal Fulfillment: Making sustainable choices can bring personal satisfaction and a sense of purpose. Maybe one will find joy and peace in aligning their actions with their values and making a positive impact on the environment.

One individual cannot possibly make a difference, alone. It is individual efforts, collectively, that makes a noticeable difference - all the difference in the world!
Jane Goodall

To conclude..
In our quest for progress and development, let us not neglect our responsibility towards the environment. The phrase "Leave nothing but footprints, take nothing but memories" resonates deeply, urging us to tread lightly and ensure our presence does not disrupt the delicate equilibrium of nature. By implementing a comprehensive approach that encompasses education, regulation, and collective action, we can shape a future where highways and railways coexist harmoniously with a pristine environment.