Authorities in India’s capital have shut schools, halted construction and banned non-essential trucks from entering the city after air pollution shot up to its worst level this season.

New Delhi has become the most polluted city in the world after its air quality turns ‘hazardous’ at 1,081 and the concentration of PM2.5 - particulate matter measuring 2.5 microns or less in diameter that can be carried into lungs,

India's capital New Delhi was wreathed in blanketing toxic smog this week as worsening air pollution surged past the grim mark of 50 times World Health Organization recommended daily maximum.

Toxic smog continues to plague most of northern India, including the capital, New Delhi. With levels of microparticles well over recommended limits in the city, schools have been ordered to hold classes online.

In Delhi NCR, GRAP Stage 4 was implemented by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) at 8 a.m. today after the Air Quality Index (AQI) fell into the "severe plus" category. This decision was reached following an urgent meeting of the GRAP subcommittee on November 17,

The Supreme Court agreed for an urgent hearing of a plea on Monday seeking directions to curb air pollution in the national capital and adjoining areas.