A THICK layer of smog enveloped India’s capital today, filling the air with an acrid smell as pollution levels surged and worsening a public health crisis.

The growing pollution has prompted its residents to take to the streets to protest and demand government action.

By this morning, New Delhi’s air quality index stood at 344, a level considered “severe” and dangerous to breathe, according to the World Health Organisation’s recommended exposure limits.

Late on Sunday, hundreds of people, including parents and environmental activists, gathered at New Delhi’s India Gate in a rare protest, urging authorities to act. Many wore masks and carried placards, with one reading: “I miss breathing.”

“I am here just as a citizen who cares and who is worried about the state of situation that we are in with respect to the lack of clean air to breathe,” said protester Meghna, who only gave her first name.

Police later confiscated placards and banners and asked protesters to disperse, saying they did not have permission to demonstrate.

Worsening air quality in the capital has sparked outrage from residents suffering from headaches and persistent coughs. 

Authorities have temporarily banned construction, restricted diesel generators and even tried using cloud seeding to promote rain, but critics say only long-term measures to cut emissions can bring real relief.