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Delhi pollution: severe smog prompts car rationing

The Indian capital, Delhi, has launched a car rationing system as it battles against toxic smog.

In many areas of Delhi air quality deteriorated into the "hazardous" category, with the potential to cause respiratory illnesses.

For a period of time, only cars with either odd or even number plates will be allowed on the roads each day, officials said. Officials hope that limiting traffic will help to reduce pollution but experts doubt its effectiveness.

Dr Maria Neira is the World Health Organisation's Director for Public Health and Environment.

(Image: Motorists drive along a road under heavy smog conditions in Delhi. Credit: Getty Images)

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