A toxic smog shrouded the Indian capital on Tuesday, driving air quality in some areas into the "severe" range ahead of winter, when cold air traps pollutants and brings a spike in respiratory illnesses.

The toxic smog season in India's capital has just begun, but those unable to escape cancer-causing poisonous fumes say the hazardous impact on health is already taking its toll.Piecemeal government efforts to mitigate the smog,

India's capital New Delhi was wreathed in poisonous smog Friday, with air pollution worsening after a fireworks ban was widely flouted for raucous celebrations for the Hindu festival of lights, Diwali.

Footage shows thick smog shrouding Delhi City in northern India on October 27. The Central Pollution Control Board said the air quality index (AQI) in Delhi and surrounding areas reached 361 or 'very poor'.