Rai said contributions from surrounding areas play a significant role in Delhi's pollution levels, with 30 per cent of the pollution originating from local sources and 34 per cent coming from the national capital region.

For the third consecutive day, Delhi continues to grapple with the adverse consequences of remaining in the 'severe' air quality zone with an average Air Quality Index (AQI) of 400 plus on Friday.

As of early Thursday morning, the AQI at key locations like Anand Vihar, Bawana, Dwarka Sector 8, and Jahangirpuri surpassed 400, entering the "severe" category.

Amid worsening air quality, Delhi chief minister Atishi on Thursday announced that primary schools in Delhi will hold online classes until further directions are given. “Due to rising pollution levels,