November 19, 2024: Delhi's Environment Minister, Gopal Rai, has written to the Central Government, urging Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene and approve the use of artificial rain to address the city's worsening air pollution crisis. The appeal comes as Delhi battles its worst air quality in recent years, with thick smog blanketing the capital and severe health risks for residents.

In his letter to the Centre, Rai described the situation as a "medical emergency," calling artificial rain the only viable solution to clear the hazardous smog that has enveloped North India. "Layers of smog have covered North India. Artificial rain is the only solution to get rid of smog. This is a medical emergency," he said while addressing the media on Tuesday.

With Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) soaring to a dangerous 494, falling within the 'severe plus' category, the city remains the most polluted in the country. Several air monitoring stations in Delhi recorded AQI levels touching the 500 mark, indicating hazardous air quality and posing a serious threat to public health. Despite the implementation of the strictest restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) IV, which includes a ban on construction activities, restrictions on vehicle use, and closing of polluting industries, the air quality continues to deteriorate.

Minister Rai expressed frustration over the lack of action from the Union Government, specifically criticizing Union Environment Minister Bhupendra Yadav for not convening any meetings on the matter of artificial rain. "I have written four letters over the past few months—August, September, October, and today—but have yet to receive a response from the Union Minister," Rai said, adding that the central government's inaction had left the Delhi government struggling to cope with the crisis.

Further emphasizing the urgency, Rai called on Prime Minister Modi to take moral responsibility for the worsening pollution levels in Delhi and act swiftly to implement measures to control the air quality.

In addition to artificial rain, the Delhi government is also considering the reintroduction of the odd-even scheme for vehicles, a move aimed at reducing the number of cars on the road and cutting down on vehicular emissions. The AAP-led government is exploring all options to mitigate the ongoing air crisis.