Scientists ready to revive artificial rain project

LAHORE:

Scientists who had abandoned a proposal to induce artificial rain to curb smog in the city because of lack of interest by the government have expressed willingness to pursue the project if they are provided financial support.

Punjab University Geography Department Chairman Dr Munawar Sabir had begun work three years ago on artificial rain to curb smog. He also did an experiment of the technology in the Khanspur hills.

The Islamia University of Bahawalpur had also launched a department and team to work on the plan meant to improve the environment as well as to convert the Cholistan desert into fertile land.

A former commissioner of Lahore had also suggested the solution.

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Meanwhile, dense smog blanketed Lahore and several adjoining districts of the province again during the past month, forcing the government to announce additional off days in schools and a smart lockdown.

“Many countries have successfully carried out artificial rain but there is lack of seriousness in this regard in the country,” Dr Sabir said while speaking to The Express Tribune.

He said the project would not be very difficult and costly if the government supported it.

“We have to see the weather and cloud situation and throw salt on clouds from an airplane to join them for artificial rain.

Also read Rain loosens grip of smog on metropolis

“We are facing horrible smog levels and there is a need to test artificial rain as a solution.

“I worked on the proposal for a few years and also discussed it with people who had worked in the field in other countries. If the government shows interest then we can resume the work,” he added.

An Islamia University of Bahawalpur professor said delegations from some other countries had also discussed with
the university’s team the idea of artificial rain but there was a lack of government support and appreciation.

The expert involved in the research initiative said the government should utilize the services of the university professors to help solve problems like smog.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 13^th, 2023.