India, Dec. 15 -- Noida and Delhi began the week under a heavy smog on Monday morning, with falling temperatures and poor air quality combining to create another difficult start for residents across the national capital region (NCR).

Overnight, temperatures dropped sharply, touching 8.2 degrees, according to data from the India Meteorological Department. At the same time, pollution levels surged. Air quality slipped into the Severe Plus category, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) crossing 450 in several monitoring locations, placing large parts of the city in the danger zone.

Low visibility, heavy smog, and a persistent haze were reported from early hours, affecting both movement and daily routines.

The weather department issued a yello...