“Lahore, Delhi choke as air pollution spikes in parts of South Asia”

Key points

• Lahore registered the world’s worst air quality, with AQI at 447.
• Delhi’s AQI stood at 215, while India’s CPCB rated it 'very poor' at 332.
• Pre-winter smog, caused by cold air trapping emissions, worsens conditions.
• Authorities target brick kilns and crop burning to curb pollution.
• Fireworks during Deepavali may worsen pollution; only low-polluting fireworks allowed.