As spike in air pollution levels left Delhiites breathless, experts have asked people to report violators of pollution norms to authorities and said each citizen can make a difference by minimising use private vehicles. Doctors here have also expressed concern over the rise in number of patients suffering from respiratory problems. Delhi's air quality deteriorated sharply on Monday to fall in the severe category for the second time within a week due to a change in wind direction and rampant stubble burning in neighbouring states, authorities said.

"The public can play a critical role in making the ground level situation more transparent. But, we also need to be responsible by reducing our carbon footprint," executive director at the Delhi-based think-tank Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), Anumita Roychowdhury, said. This can be done by "minimising use of our vehicles, using combine trips, shared transport, cycles and public transport or walking as much as possible, as personal responsibility will also make a difference", she said. Roychowdhury also said people's participation was absolutely critical to keep the pressure on authorities and to ensure that they are doing their job properly.