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"Companies we track are very upbeat. Finance isn't a problem for them. If anything, it is state-level regulations that act as a kind of deterrent," says Ms Garg.

The court indictment will certainly lead to a "tightening of bidding and tendering rules", says Ms Garg.

Aditi Garg, who works in Meerut town - about 100km from Delhi - used to cherish the quiet moments on her balcony each morning.

Ms Garg now spends nearly all her time indoors, next to her air purifier, trying to shield herself from the toxic air outside.

Both Ms Garg and Mr Ali echo this, saying there is barely any conversation about the toxic air quality in their cities.