Air pollution in India's national capital increased to 'severe' on an official index on Wednesday for the first time this season as temperatures and wind speeds dropped, reducing visibility and affecting some flights.

Delhi and its neighbouring cities are experiencing pollution levels that are at least 30-35 times the safe limit recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). Every year, De

Of the 36 monitoring stations in Delhi, 30 reported air quality in the 'severe' category, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

Delhi's air quality turned 'severe' for the first time this season on Wednesday, with the AQI soaring to 418. In comparison, the national capital's 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) -- recorded at 4 pm every day -- stood at 334 on Tuesday.

Delhi's air quality remained in the 'very poor' category on Monday with an AQI reading of 352, while four monitoring stations reported air quality levels in the 'severe' zone. The 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded until 4 pm daily was reported at 352,

Forecasts show AQI should continue to remain very poor till at least Thursday, with no significant change in meteorological conditions likely