New Delhi: In a unique initiative to combat air pollution, DLF Primus, a housing complex in Gurugram's Sector 82, has turned to "artificial rain" to help control dust and particulate matter. Using sprinklers and water pipes—originally designed for firefighting operations—the complex aims to reduce pollution levels amid the city's persistent "very poor" air quality. The move comes as the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Gurugram continues to remain at hazardous levels.

A video posted on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) on Thursday showed water cascading down from the complex’s 32-storey towers. The footage quickly went viral, sparking a wide range of reactions from netizens. 

Some praised the effort, stressing it as a proactive step in the face of ongoing pollution. One user wrote, “Wow, this solution is needed in all societies in Noida Extension as well.” Another commented, “Well done RWA (Resident Welfare Association) of the colony…at least you chose to act rather than just sending requests to the government.”

However, the initiative also faced criticism from many who questioned its effectiveness and sustainability. Some users mocked the approach, with one asking, “What’s next? Cloud seeding?” Others pointed out the potential waste of water, with one commenter remarking, “It will work as long as you have water. Cheaper to issue masks to residents.” Another added, “Water wastage at its peak!”

A few criticized the method’s limited impact, suggesting that the artificial rain would not be enough to tackle the broader pollution problem. One user noted, "Artificial rain needs to be from a height of 5,000 to 15,000 feet and cover a larger area. These guys are just wasting water."

Users also dropped suggestions for alternative measures, with one user recommending, “Better to use a rain gun—it will cover more area, and the droplet size will be more appropriate.” Another user argued that controlling dust from vehicles on poorly maintained roads should be a priority: “Actually, water should be sprayed on the roads."

Achal Yadav, the president of the complex’s RWA, explained that the artificial rain was being conducted to protect residents' health, especially children and senior citizens, from the harmful effects of pollution. He highlighted that tackling pollution is not just the responsibility of the government but requires community involvement. 

“This is a serious issue, and the government cannot control it alone. Every resident of Gurugram has to contribute,” Yadav said. He noted that the artificial rain would be carried out daily, if necessary, depending on the AQI. The complex has also introduced other measures, such as a carpool service for residents commuting to Delhi’s Cyber City and other areas, which has been adopted by residents of neighbouring complexes as well.