While India’s AQI (Air Quality Index) levels reach the ‘unhealthy’ category, home remedies like air purifiers and beeswax candles can prove to be resourceful.

Northern India is grappling with a severe air quality crisis as pollution levels skyrocket across major cities. The situation is particularly dire in Delhi, Mumbai, and parts of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, where the Air Quality Index (AQI) has reached alarming levels, posing significant health risks.

Delhi recorded air pollution more than 17 times above an acceptable level as worsening smog triggered curbs on trucking and shuttered construction sites and schools.

India's capital was left gasping this week as air pollution smog reduced visibility to near zero and raised air quality levels more than 130 times safe limits.

Delhi's new action plan to combat rising pollution includes a ban on non-essential trucks, school closures, and remote work.

At least 18 zones in the national capital recorded an AQI of over 450, falling in the ‘severe plus ’ category, CPCB data showed