JOIN USState all set to try Chinese method of cloud seeding
The new system will be experimented near Linganamakki and Thippagondanahalli reservoirs as well as Narayanapura dam in the coming rabi season (north-east monsoon season). Seven rocket launchers have been procured at the cost of Rs 35 crore for this purpose and are presently being installed, Revenue Minister Karunakara Reddy told reporters on Thursday.
Under the rocket launching system, solid propellants consisting of an oxider (usually potassium nitrate) and fuel, will be launched into the rain-bearing clouds. These rockets are basically combustion chambers. The solid propellants will have high density and can burn very fast. Once the oxider is sprayed on the clouds, there are chances of rains, an official explained. The system is widely being used in China to control weather as per the requirement. China had reportedly used this system to prevent rains by scattering clouds using chemicals during 2008 Olympic games.
Karnataka used to conduct cloud seeding using small aircraft. This system, the minister said, was not reliable. “Under the new system, chances of success are more. We hope our experiments (with the new system) will yield expected results,” he stated. As far as the kharif season, there was a deficit of 12 per cent in rainfall. Of the expected 363.33 mm rains, the State has received 319.9 mm. As many as 29 taluks and 49 hoblies have not received any rain. Deficit rainfall is recorded mainly in Malnad and Coastal districts, the Revenue minister said.
Karunakara Reddy said the Government would take a decision on declaring areas drought-hit in the State after July. Of the 74.63 lakh hectare target for sowing, nearly 40 lakh hectare has been covered so far. This is 14 per cent less when compared to last year. “Many parts of the State are receiving good rains of late. There will be good rains in the coming days as per the forecast. We are hopeful of achieving the target sowing in the season,” Agriculture Minister S A Ravindranath said.
All steps have been taken to ensure sufficient supply of seeds and fertilisers, he added.