Smog-hit Indian capital likened to ‘gas chamber’

Pollution in New Delhi hit a dangerous level yesterday, putting residents at risk, forcing the closure of schools and bringing calls from doctors for the Nov 19 half-marathon to be cancelled.

Arvind Kejriwal, the Indian capital’s chief minister, said the city had become a “gas chamber”. Schools for young children were shut and outdoor activity at high schools suspended.

The health impact of breathing the thick grey haze that hung over the city was rated “severe” and residents complained of irritation in the throat.