As a first step towards reducing smog, Pakistan has achieved a major milestone by successfully testing locally developed technology for artificial rain. Using cloud seeding, rain was started in Jhelum and Gujar Khan, with the Meteorological Department confirming the event.
Yesterday,experts reported that the cloud seeding operation was conducted at 2 PM, and within a few hours, rainfall was observed in both cities. This breakthrough is expected to impact Lahore as well, potentially bringing rainfall to the city. Furthermore, environmentalist believe this technology could significantly help reduce smog, a persistent environmental challenge in the region.
The severity of smog in Punjab specially Lahore and Multan is evident from the fact that in October alone, approximately 1.9 million people were hospitalized due to smog related health issues. The success of artificial rain technology provides hope for relief such environmental and health crises.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz congratulated the scientists and relevant institutions involved in the project, saying:
“Your dedication, hard work, and expertise have made history in Punjab. The entire nation is proud of you.”
Senior Provincial Minister Maryam Aurangzeb also commended the achievement, noting:
“Last year, we conducted an artificial rain experiment in collaboration with the United Arab Emirates(UAE). This time, however, we achieved success using our own local technology and expertise.”
