NEW DELHI (Reuters) -India’s Supreme Court has asked lawyers to stay away and argue cases on a virtual platform instead, media said, in the latest disruption to life in the capital caused by deteriorating air quality.

New Delhi’s air quality index has hovered above 400 this week, ranking in the “severe” category, prompting authorities to step up curbs on construction and industrial activity.

Describing the situation as “very, very serious”, the Supreme Court asked lawyers on Thursday to consider using its virtual hearing facility.

“This (air pollution) will cause permanent damage … Even masks are not enough,” said Justice P S Narasimha, according to India Today, among other media.

The Supreme Court did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.

The air quality index sto

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