Delhi schools close as air quality dips for third day

Schools in India’s capital were closed yesterday and today after a thick gray haze of noxious air enveloped the city for the third consecutive day.

Buildings and monuments were largely obscured by smog and an official health advisory urged people to avoid all physical activity outdoors.

The air quality index exceeded 460, nine times the level recommended by the World Health Organisation, according to the state-run Central Pollution Control Board. In some places, the index crossed the 500 level.

New Delhi is one of the world’s most polluted cities, with a toxic haze that obscures the sky and blocks sunlight.

Doctors in the city of 20 million people say many of their patients are complaining of ailments related to the filthy air.