NEW DELHI, Nov. 2 (Xinhua) -- India's Commission for Air Quality Management has banned construction and demolition activities in and around the national capital city, except for essential government projects, with immediate effect.

       The restrictions were also imposed on mining and stone-crushing. Strict restrictions covered on plying of BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel light motor vehicles in Delhi and several nearby districts.

       Delhi's air quality turned "hazardous", media reported.