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.

The reduced visibility in some parts prompted a warning from airport authorities that flights may be affected.

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'

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

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.

Delhi's air quality remained "very poor" for a 14th consecutive day on Tuesday, with an AQI reading of 334, as vehicular emission was the biggest contributor to the city's pollution, accounting for 15.

Delhi overtook Pakistan ’s Lahore as the world’s most polluted city in Swiss group IQAir’s live rankings, with an air quality index (AQI) score of more than 1,000, which is considered “hazardous”, but India ’s pollution authority said the AQI was around 350.

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.