Minister Of Environment Launches Cloud Seeding Initiatives To Enhance Sustainability In Saudi Arabia

The Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture, Eng. Abdulrahman Alfadley, launched several initiatives in Dammam today. These initiatives are part of the National Cloud Seeding Program, which aims to integrate modern technologies and local knowledge. Representatives from partner agencies attended the event, where key achievements since the program's first operational phase in 2022 were highlighted.

During the ceremony, new aircraft and advanced technologies for rainmaking operations were showcased. These advancements aim to bolster the technical and human capacities of the program. The efforts align with broader initiatives like "Saudi Green" and "Middle East Green," which focus on achieving a sustainable environmental future.

Eng. Alfadley stressed the importance of localising cloud seeding technology to build internal capabilities. This localisation is crucial for ensuring operational sustainability and improving rainmaking efficiency. The initiative also aims to reduce costs, increase coverage, and enhance outcomes in line with Vision 2030.

The National Cloud Seeding Program is a result of the Middle East Green Initiative Summit announced by HRH the Crown Prince. It aims to increase rainfall, create new water sources, and improve vegetation cover. This program addresses challenges like climate change, desertification, and drought.

Operational activities have already commenced in Riyadh, Hail, and Qassim. These regions mark the initial stages of rainmaking efforts across Saudi Arabia. The program's expansion is expected to support sustainable environmental goals further.

"The localization of cloud seeding technology is essential for building internal capabilities," said Eng. Alfadley during the event. "It ensures operational sustainability and improves the efficiency of rainmaking operations."

The National Cloud Seeding Program supports both Saudi Green and Middle East Green initiatives by contributing to sustainable environmental objectives. By enhancing rainfall and vegetation cover, it plays a vital role in addressing pressing environmental challenges.

This initiative not only seeks to boost rainfall but also aims at creating new water resources while enhancing vegetation cover across Saudi Arabia. Such efforts are pivotal in tackling issues related to climate change and desertification.

With inputs from SPA