Delhi Air Quality Hits Severe Level with AQI 402

Delhi's air quality index climbed to 402 on Tuesday, placing the city in the severe category as per the Central Pollution Control Board's scale. The high AQI value was accompanied by thick smoke that has obscured the skyline and lowered visibility to a few hundred meters. Health officials warned residents to stay indoors, especially those with respiratory ailments, and advised the use of masks. The government has urged industries to reduce emissions and has activated emergency protocols to monitor air quality continuously. The severe pollution is part of a broader trend affecting the National Capital Region during the winter months.