India's capital city of Delhi has virtually shut down as air pollution hit "severe plus" levels, according to Indian government officials in its pollution control authority.

Unhealthy

Whatever the causes of the smog, by one ranking Delhi was not just the most polluted city in the world, but “nearly five times as bad as the second most polluted city, Dhaka,” in Bangladesh next door, as Shashi Tharoor, a leader of the opposition in Parliament and best-selling author, posted on X.

Questioning the response of the Centre, she said, “The Prime Minister is not even in the country... Seven states, more than one-third of the country is facing a medical emergency.

Most of India’s coal-burning plants are set to again fall short of a major pollution target, adding to the deadly smog that’s enveloped large parts of the country.

State authorities tout an experimental plan that involves stimulating clouds for rain, but scientists are sceptical.

Delhi NCR's hazardous air quality poses severe, long-term health risks. A new study reveals that prolonged exposure to pollutants worsens respiratory illnesses, cardiovascular diseases, and mental health.

As of Tuesday morning, six major cities recorded "poor" air quality, four fell into the "moderate" category, four were rated "satisfactory," and only one in the "Good" category, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board.

Delhi faced a severe environmental crisis as the AQI hit hazardous levels in multiple areas. In response, the Delhi Police enforced vehicle checks and a ban on older diesel vehicles to combat air pollution,