Delhi residents are currently exposed to PM-2.5 pollution levels equivalent to smoking 40 cigarettes per day, according to air quality data as of November 18. Haryana follows closely, with its residents effectively inhaling the pollution of 29 cigarettes daily.

Other affected states include Bihar (10 cigarettes), Uttar Pradesh (9.5), Rajasthan, West Bengal, and Odisha (7.5 each), Punjab (6.5), and Madhya Pradesh (5.5). The national average stands at eight cigarettes per day.

The alarming statistics highlight the urgent need for air quality control measures across India.