New Delhi was blanketed by a thick smog on Wednesday, prompting flight delays and restrictions on outdoor activities for school children.

Experts have blamed prolonged Diwali celebrations, when thousands defied a ban on setting off firecrackers, for the worst air quality the Indian city has seen in two years.

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

Delhi typically sees a spike in air pollution during the festive season starting in October. After Dussehra celebrations in the second week of October, Delhi’s Air Quality Index

Delhi AQI soared to 452 by 11pm, falling in comfortably “severe plus” – the worst possible category within the AQI range

Delhi's air quality turned 'severe' for the first time this season on Wednesday, with the AQI soaring to 418. In comparison, the national capital's 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) -- recorded at 4 pm every day -- stood at 334 on Tuesday.