New Delhi, Nov. 12 -- Delhi NCR woke to another severe smog day, with AQI readings crossing 400 at multiple stations and authorities enforcing GRAP Stage III restrictions, including curbs on construction and polluting fuels. Visibility is low, commuters report burning eyes and sore throats, and doctors are seeing more wheezing and cough, especially in children and older adults.

Health risks rise sharply when fine particles build up; WHO's 24 hour guideline for PM2.5 is 15 micrograms per cubic metre, yet winter spikes regularly exceed that in the region. People with asthma and heart disease face aggravated symptoms, and even healthy residents feel chest tightness after short exposure. Many households are turning to HEPA filter air purifie...