Child health fears at the most polluted spot in the world's most polluted city

Delhi's appalling pollution has prompted fears that millions of youngsters will suffer serious health problems later in life

The dusty patch of ground in the centre of the narrow lanes and overcrowded tenements of Anand Vihar Colony is empty. No children play cricket, wrestle or run. Even when evening comes and the searing Indian summer temperatures subside, they will remain with their marbles or toys indoors in this poor Delhi neighbourhood.

Basona Bhadra, 26, watches her eight-year-old son, Varu, pour water from one cup to another on her kitchen floor. "He gets breathless and ill," she says. "He doesn't like going out any more. He is happier at home."