Air quality in New Delhi continued to be in the "severe" category for the third consecutive day on Monday as a thick toxic smog engulfed the Indian capital.

Air pollution in Delhi and its suburbs, which together make up the National Capital Region, has been at its worst levels in weeks.

According to government data, the averageAir Quality Index (AQI) in the region on Monday was 471, which among the worst in the world, with any measurement above 300 considered "hazardous" to health.

For comparison, any measurement under 50 is considered "good." 

On Sunday, authorities imposed the most stringent pollution-control measures, which include a complete ban on the movement of older diesel vehicles and a halt in construction activities.

Schools have also been directed to conduct classes in hybrid mode.

Smog is a recurring phenomenon in Delhi, especially during the winter months. 

The issue of air pollution in the national capital is also a heated political issue. There have been demands for a long-term solution to curb the smog 

Travel impacted by smog

Low visibility from the haze disrupted air and rail travel on Monday.

Over 40 flights were reported to have been cancelled while dozen others were delayed. 

The Delhi airport had earlier issued a travel advisory, warning passengers of disruptions.

It said in the afternoon that runway visibility had improved but some arrivals and departures could still be impacted. 

Smog causes deadly highway pile up

The smog caused an accident involving multiple vehicles on the Delhi-Mumbai expressway, killing at least two people, news agency PTI reported.

Several others were injured in the incident.



Edited by: Wesley Rahn