Dhaka has once again topped the list of the world’s most polluted cities, with its air quality categorized as ‘highly unhealthy.’ On Monday, February 17, at 9:10 AM, Dhaka recorded an AQI (Air Quality Index) score of 276, making it the most air-polluted city in the world, according to UNB.
Following Dhaka, Delhi, Lahore, and Kathmandu recorded AQI scores of 229, 197, and 191, respectively, securing the second, third, and fourth places on the list.
When the AQI ranges between 50 and 100, air quality is considered ‘moderate.’ An AQI score between 101 and 150 is classified as ‘unhealthy for sensitive groups,’ meaning individuals with respiratory conditions should avoid prolonged outdoor exposure. A score between 151 and 200 is considered ‘unhealthy,’ while 201 to 300 is labeled as ‘very unhealthy.’ If the AQI surpasses 301, it is deemed ‘hazardous’ and poses serious health threats to the general public.
In Bangladesh, the AQI is primarily determined by five pollutants: particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur dioxide (SO₂), and ozone (O₃).
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution is responsible for approximately seven million deaths worldwide each year. The primary causes of air pollution-related deaths include stroke, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung cancer, and severe respiratory infections.
Dhaka has been struggling with severe air pollution for years, particularly during the winter months when air quality deteriorates significantly. The city’s air pollution levels typically improve during the monsoon season, but the overall situation remains dire.
With the increasing health risks associated with toxic air, experts urge authorities to implement stricter regulations and take immediate action to combat the worsening air pollution crisis.
