In view of the deteriorating air quality in the national capital, the Delhi government has decided to bear the entire cost of 'artificial rain' to curb the air pollution in the city, said officials. Also, the Delhi government has directed Chief Secretary Naresh Kumar to present the government's views before the Supreme Court on Friday.

"The Secretary has been directed to prepare a proposal in coordination with IIT Kanpur and present it before the Supreme Court via an affidavit before the hearing tomorrow. The Delhi government is ready to bear the cost of Rs 13 crore for the two-phase pilot study," a statement from Gopal Rai's office said. The Environment Minister has also directed the Chief Secretary to request necessary permissions from the Centre and UP government by November 15, so that the first phase of the pilot study can be done before the 'artificial rain' on November 20-21.