New Delhi: The noxious haze pertains to linger in Delhi and its suburbs with raging stubble fires in neighbouring states, fall in the temperature and wind speed pushing the city's air quality to the 'severe' zone.
The overall Air Quality Index (AQI) in the national capital was recorded at 482 which falls under the 'severe' category with PM10 being 504 and PM2.5 - 332, according to Centre-run SAFAR.
According to reports, smog cover continues over Delhi with Wazirpur recording a reading of 437 and Mundka at 458, both in 'severe' category on air quality index.
As air pollution levels are nearing 'severe plus category', schools in Noida, Ghaziabad and Delhi have been shut for two days, hours after the apex court-mandated anti-pollution authority EPCA that they should be closed as pollution in the region hovered close to 'emergency' levels.
The smog cover has also reduced the visibility at the major junctions of the city in the wee hours. The commuters were only able to see till 100-150 meters of the road while driving.
People residing in Gurugram complained of breathlessness and allergic reactions due to the toxic air. According to the India Meteorological Department, fog and mist cover is very likely over the region for the next three days.
