Delhi Chokes at AQI 497; Doctor Advises Light Masks, Less Outdoor Time

• Delhi's AQI surged to 497, remaining in the 'severe' category.
• Doctor Atul Mathur advises residents to wear light masks and reduce outdoor exposure due to severe air pollution.
• Pollution includes harmful gases like nitrogen oxide and particulate matter, which can inflame arteries.
• Delhi government directed schools for grades IX and XI to adopt a hybrid format due to severe AQI.
• AAP Delhi unit President Saurabh Bharadwaj criticized CM Rekha Gupta over the worsening air quality.

Why It Matters: Delhi's severe air pollution endangers health, requiring residents to take precautions.