Goa, Nov. 5 -- New Delhi is reeling under a thick blanket of toxic smog, with doctors reporting a sharp spike in eye-related ailments among both adults and children. Ophthalmologists across the city say they have witnessed nearly a 60 per cent rise in cases of eye allergies, dryness, irritation, and excessive watering as air quality plummets to the "severe" category following Diwali celebrations.

Medical experts attribute the surge to the hazardous mix of smoke, fine particulate matter, and chemical residues from firecrackers, warning that the impact of pollution extends beyond respiratory distress to affect vision and ocular health.

"Every year after Diwali, we brace for a rise in eye complaints. This year, the number of patients suffe...