Dhaka, the bustling capital of Bangladesh, witnesses a concerning rise in air pollution levels, ranking eighth globally for its deteriorating air quality. As of 9:10 am on Friday, the Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 154, marking an unhealthy atmosphere for residents.
This uptick follows Thursday’s AQI score of 144, signaling continued discomfort for sensitive groups due to poor air quality. According to AQI standards, readings between 101 and 150 classify air quality as unhealthy for vulnerable populations.
Leading the list of cities grappling with air pollution are Thailand’s Chiang Mai, Nepal’s Kathmandu, and India’s Delhi, with AQI scores of 194, 171, and 163, respectively.
AQI serves as a vital tool in informing citizens about the air they breathe, detailing potential health risks associated with pollution levels. In Bangladesh, the AQI considers particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), NO2, CO, SO2, and ozone in its calculations.
Dhaka’s struggle with air pollution is longstanding, typically exacerbated during winter and alleviated during the monsoon season. However, the persistent issue underscores the urgent need for sustainable solutions.
Globally, air pollution remains a grave concern, claiming an estimated seven million lives annually, as highlighted by the World Health Organization (WHO). The alarming statistics underscore the imperative for concerted efforts to combat this silent killer.
