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The air quality index in India's capital Delhi fell to the "severe" and "hazardous" levels on Thursday. This is due to a combination of factors including dust, weather patterns, vehicle and industry emissions, and smoke from the burning of crop stubble in neighboring states. Parents and environmentalists are calling for school closure.

To reduce pollution, India's federal pollution control board prohibited diesel trucks transporting non-essential goods to enter the capital. Most construction and demolition work has been paused. The government also urged residents to work from home when possible. 

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