Authorities in India’s capital have shut schools, halted construction and banned non-essential trucks from entering the city after air pollution shot up to its worst level this season.

The Supreme Court agreed for an urgent hearing of a plea on Monday seeking directions to curb air pollution in the national capital and adjoining areas.

Air quality in northern India has worsened over the past week, with New Delhi's AQI recording a reading of 465, classified as "severe plus category", on Sunday evening due to unfavourable meteorological conditions,

Delhi's new action plan to combat rising pollution includes a ban on non-essential trucks, school closures, and remote work.

The air quality in Delhi deteriorated, prompting GRAP IV restrictions. Schools for students up to Class 11 will switch to online learning, construction work will be banned, and only specific vehicles