Air pollution chokes New Delhi every winter, but this year's smog has already derailed everything from transport and road work to schools.

India's capital city of Delhi has virtually shut down as air pollution hit "severe plus" levels, according to Indian government officials in its pollution control authority.

Residents in India's northern states woke up to another day of poor air quality on Tuesday, as a layer of dense fog shrouded most of the region, and pollution in the capital Delhi remained severe.

Kanchipuram, often called the "City of a Thousand Temples," has one of the lowest air quality index in the country. Explore countless shrines and intricate 1,000-pillared halls, and immerse yourself in its heritage by discovering its vibrant silk textiles.

In several areas of the city, pollution levels were more than 50 times higher than the World Health Organization’s recommended safe limit. Forecasts say the poor air quality will continue into the week.

Pollution in New Delhi shot up to its worst level of the year so far, prompting local authorities to enact emergency measures, including school shutdowns and a ban on construction work.

This air pollution extends beyond roads and open areas, making it difficult for people to breathe even inside their homes. In this situation, an air purifier can offer protection.

Air quality in northern India has worsened over the past week, with New Delhi's AQI recording a reading of 465, classified as "severe plus category", on Sunday evening due to unfavourable meteorological conditions,

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