authorities

Authorities in Delhi - which has an estimated population of more than 33 million - have already enacted measures aimed at tackling the pollution, including spraying roads with water containing dust suppressants.

Although the authorities have been blocking food and water, they have temporarily allowed local residents to send some supplies down by rope.

Local residents have pleaded with the authorities to assist the miners, but they have refused.

They have refused to cooperate with authorities as some are undocumented - coming from neighbouring countries like Lesotho and Mozambique - and fear being deported.

According to government figures, the average band D council tax set by local authorities in England for 2024-25 was £2,171 - an increase of £106 or 5.1% on the previous year.