Diwali pollution continues to haunt New Delhi despite new measures

A thick blanket of smog shrouded India's capital New Delhi on Monday,

as firecrackers smoke added to the already-high pollution levels

during Diwali celebrations.

The air quality index reached a severe level and posed significant health risks.

Visibility deteriorated as a gray haze blanketed streets and buildings.

India's Supreme Court in October had sought to limit Diwali pollution

by restricting conventional firecrackers, allowing only "green firecrackers"

to be lit for a three-hour window last weekend.

While these new firecrackers produced fewer emissions, they still released

particulates and other pollutants, adding to the city's already hazadous air.

Environmentalists want longer-term solutions, such as cleaner energy

and stricter vehicular emissions control.