00:00A thick layer of smoke blanketed India's capital on Tuesday, a day after millions celebrated the Hindu festival of Diwali with fireworks that sent air pollution levels soaring to hazardous levels across the city.
00:13According to Health Authority, the chemical components of fireworks, combined with seasonal pollution and weather conditions, raised the air quality index above 350, a level considered severe and dangerous to breathe, according to the World Health Organization.
00:30Last week, the Supreme Court of India eased the general ban on firecrackers in New Delhi during Diwali, allowing the limited use of eco-friendly firecrackers that emit less pollutants.
00:43The court had said they could be used during specific hours from Saturday to Tuesday, but as in previous years, the rule was mostly ignored.
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