Swiss monitor IQAir placed New Delhi at the top of its major-city pollution ranking on Saturday morning, hours before Diwali fireworks typically worsen the haze. Physicians advised N95 masks and skipping outdoor exercise as forecasts signalled severe particulate levels. Crop burning, traffic and winter stagnant air usually combine with festival smoke across northern India. Authorities have previously ordered temporary building pauses and school closures in similar spikes. Health advisers warned that crackers this weekend could drive readings higher still across the capital region.
Source: SCMP