Delhi residents woke up to severe smog today in the morning, with the air quality index (AQI) having already progressed to 'hazardous' by evening.

Delhi recorded the worst air quality in India on Wednesday with a severe AQI of 418 while Noida and Gurugram also faced very poor levels.

An AQI between zero and 50 is considered 'good', 51 and 100 'satisfactory', 101 and 200 'moderate', 201 and 300 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor', 401 and 450 'severe' and above 450 'severe plus'

Air pollution in India's national capital increased to 'severe' on an official index on Wednesday for the first time this season as temperatures and wind speeds dropped, reducing visibility and affecting some flights.

PM IST Delhi's air quality turned 'severe' for the first time this season on Wednesday, with the AQI soaring to 418. The national capital also overtook the Pakistani city Lahore to become the world's most polluted city in Swiss group IQAir's live rankings.

Delhi and its neighbouring cities are experiencing pollution levels that are at least 30-35 times the safe limit recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). Every year, De

Delhi surpassed Lahore as the world's most polluted city, with its air quality index reaching a 'severe' 418. The smog, a mix of fog and smoke, reduced visibility, causing flight diversions. Low wind speed,

The act of parali burning emits harmful and toxic gases such as carbon monoxide, which facilitate air pollution. This can cause health problems including skin irritation, respiratory issues, cancer, and asthma.