PUNJAB: The Punjab government on Saturday 2pm induces artificial rain using locally developed cloud seeding.
The Meteorological Department confirmed that cloud seeding resulted in rain in Jhelum and Gujar Khan.
According to experts, within a few hours of cloud seeding, both cities experienced rainfall. The experts also suggested that the effects of cloud seeding could bring rain to Lahore, helping reduce smog levels in the region.
Punjab’s Chief Minister (CM), Maryam Nawaz, congratulated the relevant authorities and scientific experts on the successful experiment. She praised their hard work, dedication, and skills, stating that Punjab had made history and the entire nation was proud of their achievements.
Senior Punjab Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb also shared the positive news, recalling that last year, artificial rainfall was attempted with the help of the UAE. She highlighted that this time, the successful experiment was carried out using local expertise and technology, with support from the Army Aviation, PARCO, EPA, and the Punjab government.
Disadvantages of artificial rain:
Artificial rain has several disadvantages including:
- Environmental impact: the chemicals used in this process are harmful to plants animals and people. these chemicals include silver iodide, dry ice, or salt.
- Climate change: Cloud seeding can disrupt natural climatic patterns. For example, increased precipitation in one area could lead to drought elsewhere.
- Cost: Cloud seeding is expensive, involving the delivery and release of chemicals into the sky.
- Unpredictability: Cloud seeding requires suitable meteorological conditions, which are not always available or predictable.
- Flooding: Excessive rain from cloud seeding could lead to flooding.
- Long-term implications: The long-term implications of cloud seeding are not well understood.
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