The Environment Ministry addressed the high pollution levels in Delhi, stating that reason was mainly the dust storms from Rajasthan. Air quality in Delhi plummeted beyond "severe" level on Wednesday.

Dusty storms are likely to continue over the next three days. According to the Central Pollution Control Board data, it increased coarser particles in the air.

In a bid to curb the issue, construction agencies, municipal corporations and Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) has been alerted and asked to ensure water sprinkling, with Delhi's Chief Secretary being in-charge of issuing instructions and rallying all agencies.

On Wednesday, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) kicked into high gears and in its urgent meeting of the Task Force discussed implementation of Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) and issued directions to contain local dust sources.

"The high pollution levels during this time of the year in Delhi are unusual and primarily due to dust storms from Rajasthan. Rajasthan is facing extremely dry weather conditions, with high temperatures and wind speeds," a ministry statement said.

"CPCB convened an urgent meeting of the Task Force regarding implementation of Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) today and issued necessary directions to contain local dust sources. The Task Force has also recommended that public should avoid prolonged exposure," the Ministry said.