It is an unusual directive to induce artificial rain by burning rubber tyres with twigs from latex-producing trees and salt. Burning of tyres releases noxious gases like cynide, carbon monoxide, sulphur dioxide and has been banned by the National Green Tribunal. One IIT Bombay alumnus from Solapur, Maharasthra and some other were forcing district collector for rains in the particular area. Scientists and environmentalists called this artificial rain making recipe unsientific and toxic.
Few days back, district collector had issued a verbal directive to 11 tehsils, asking the officials to to burn rubber, twigs and salt at 1026 spots to attract rain in the district that has received only 35% of its average rainfall this season. The villagers were assured that rain would follow within 24-96 hours. This experiment involves burning of tyres, wood and sodium chloride, where sodium is made to melt and evaporate. It is then expected to reach the cloud base on a guaranteed basis. Before commencement, environmentalists informed the collector that burning tyres is against environment rules, forcing him to withdraw the order.
Matter Referenced: Times of India, Ahmedabad, Monday, 24th September, 2018.
By: Dr. Bhawana Asnani.
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