After weeks of anticipation and meticulous planning, Lahore witnessed a historic downpour on Saturday – its first-ever artificial rain. This groundbreaking initiative, announced by Caretaker Chief Minister Punjab Mohsin Naqvi, brought a wave of relief and excitement to the smog-choked city.
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In a press conference, Naqvi hailed the collaboration with the United Arab Emirates (UAE), whose expertise and technology made the artificial rain possible. He confirmed that around 10 areas across Lahore received the rainfall, achieved by firing 48 flares from an aircraft.
Naqvi expressed gratitude to the UAE team for their crucial role in this endeavor. He revealed that two aircraft from the UAE had arrived in Pakistan two weeks prior, setting the stage for the rainmaking operation.
The unannounced downpour took Lahore by surprise, with residents taking to social media to share videos and express their awe at this unprecedented phenomenon. The city, known for its severe air pollution during winter, finally experienced a much-needed respite.
پاکستان کی تاریخ میں پہلی مرتبہ
نگران حکومت نے لاہور میں مصنوعی بارش کر دی۔۔!!لاہور میں مصنوعی بارش، یواےای کے تعاون سے شہر کے دس مقامات پر بارش ہوئی pic.twitter.com/2bamTiF5e3
— Pakistan Tourism (@PakistanJannatt) December 16, 2023
While the long-term impact of the artificial rain remains to be seen, the government is closely monitoring the situation and its potential effect on air quality. Hopes are high that this innovative approach could pave the way for a cleaner and healthier future for Lahore.