Pakistan to try cloud-seeding technology to beat Sindh heatwave as death toll crosses 600

The Pakistani government is reportedly mulling to artificially induce rainfall in the southern province of Sindh, as a blistering heatwave claimed more than 600 lives so far.

Authorities are still discussing with experts over the proposal whether it is feasible to be implemented to beat the heatwave.

Director general of Ports and Shipping Abdul Malik Ghauri has however ruled out employing the cloud-seeding technology before 1 July, chiefly due to technical difficulties.

Experts from the meteorological agency, aviation sector, maritime department and the military may work on the project.

The Pakistani air force is likely to lead the process with the help of aviation authorities if the proposal gets a green signal. Cloud-seeding technology is used to artificially modify the weather pattern by dispersing substances on clouds to alter the precipitation. The method is likely to have an impact on the environment as well.

Officials in Islamabad are contemplating the move as the death toll from the heatwave has risen to 600 in Sindh. Most of the casualties have been reported from Karachi.

"We are closing offices, schools and colleges not just in Karachi but throughout Sindh. Offices that offer essential services like hospitals will remain open," Sindh chief minister Syed Qaim Ali Shah told the assembly.

"I want to inform you that a disaster management [system] already exists, not just for rains and storms but for such situations as well... they must have done their work. Non-government organisations must have also done their work," he added.

A state of emergency has already been declared in Sindh.