Sri Lanka, Nov. 10 -- Hundreds of people in Delhi took to the streets on Sunday to protest against pollution as air quality continues to worsen in India's capital and surrounding areas.

People of all ages, including children, held banners and shouted slogans, demanding that the government take action to curb pollution, which is touching severe levels.

Around 80 people were briefly detained by the police, who said the protesters did not have permission to gather near India Gate, a landmark in the city.

Though air pollution is a recurring problem in northern India, especially in winters, this was the first big protest on the issue in a while.

"Our lungs are getting damaged. The government should declare it a health emergency until they ...