Capital punishment: No respite, Delhi pollution levels in 'severe plus ' category

A toxic haze hung over Delhi and its suburbs for the sixth consecutive day on November 5 as pollution levels remained stubbornly in the "severe" category. (Image: ANI)

The air quality index in Delhi-NCR deteriorated from 415 at 4pm on November 4 to 460 at 7am on November 5. An reading of 150 and above is considered harmful. (Image: ANI)

As per the Central Pollution Control Board, the national capital's air quality index has climbed more than 200 points between October 27 and November 3, culminating in a descent into the "severe plus" category (above 450) on November 3. (Image: ANI)

A gradual drop in temperature, calm winds that trap pollution, and a surge in post-harvest paddy straw burning across Punjab and Haryana have all come together to make the toxic cocktail that has forced schools to shut and a temporary ban on construction. (Image: ANI)

According to the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), pollution will peak in the capital from November 1 to November 15, when stubble-burning will be on the rise. (Image: ANI)

The pattern repeats every winter as unfavourable weather conditions, combined with emissions from vehicles, paddy straw burning, firecrackers and other local pollution sources, contribute to hazardous air quality in Delhi-NCR. (Image: ANI)