Smog thickens in New Delhi on day of Diwali

The Air Quality Index (AQI) in the city stood at 435 on a scale of 500, indicating "hazardous" air quality.

Thick smog reduced visibility early in the morning to the extent that some of the iconic places including Jama Masjid (Grand Mosque) and Red Fort monument were hardly visible.

People who came out faced problems while commuting due to the pollution.

Authorities have banned the sale and use of firecrackers ahead of the Diwali festival in New Delhi, but environmentalists have called on the government to do more.