The average air quality index (AQI) in Delhi early Tuesday was recorded to be 492 (as of 7 am). The AQI in Alipur, Anand Vihar, Bawana, Narela, Pusa and Sonia Vihar, meanwhile, touched 500, which is the maximum index (as per the Central Pollution Control Board).

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.

According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), neighborhoods such as Anand Vihar, Ashok Vihar, Bawana, Jahangirpuri, and Major Dhyan Chand Stadium registered AQI readings of 500.

A successful execution of these 10 measures is expected to bring down PM 2.5 levels to 72 μg/m3 and PM 10 levels to 120 μg/m3

Delhi's AQI hits 494, making it the most polluted city globally, with severe health and economic implications.

As areas in Delhi NCR see an AQI of 500, here’s how the toxic pollution is impacting your body on a daily basis

The presence of pollutants such as PM 2.5 and PM 10, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and ozone in the air poses serious health risks, particularly for children and the elderly.