Despite a significant exodus from Dhaka as residents leave for festive reunions ahead of Eid-Ul-Fitr, the city’s air quality remains alarmingly poor, ranking fourth globally in air pollution levels. At 9 am on Monday, Dhaka recorded an AQI score of 163, placing it behind only Delhi, Chiang Mai, and Kathmandu.
Despite the usual decrease in vehicular traffic during the holiday season, Dhaka’s air quality remained unhealthy, as per the Air Quality Index (AQI). This ranking highlights Dhaka’s ongoing struggle with air pollution, with particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), NO2, CO, SO2, and ozone being the predominant pollutants.
This persistent air pollution crisis is a year-round concern for Dhaka, with slight improvements seen during the monsoon months. However, the high AQI reading during a period of reduced vehicle emissions underscores the complexity of the city’s pollution problem.
The situation in Dhaka reflects a global health emergency, as emphasized by the World Health Organization (WHO), with air pollution being a significant contributor to various deadly diseases worldwide. Despite efforts, Dhaka continues to grapple with its air quality challenges, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive solutions.
