Dhaka, the bustling capital of Bangladesh, is facing a severe air quality crisis. Recently, it ranked as the second most polluted city globally, with an alarming Air Quality Index (AQI) of 262 early on a Monday morning. This level is labeled ‘very unhealthy,’ posing serious health risks for residents. Kinshasa in Congo took the top spot with a staggering AQI of 310, highlighting a growing global concern over air pollution.
The AQI is a tool that measures how clean or polluted the air is, based on several pollutants like particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and ozone. A score between 50 and 100 indicates moderate air quality, while readings above 300 are categorized as hazardous, significantly endangering public health.
Historically, air quality in Dhaka tends to dip in the winter months, as colder temperatures trap pollutants closer to the ground. Conversely, during the monsoon season, the air quality often improves, providing temporary relief. According to the World Health Organization, air pollution is linked to about seven million deaths worldwide each year, mainly due to heart and respiratory diseases. This figure underscores the urgent need for action.
Recent discussions on social media have shown how concerned citizens are about their health and the environment. Many are calling for stricter regulations on emissions and better public awareness campaigns about the dangers of air pollution. This public demand for change highlights the growing awareness around environmental issues.
Individuals can take small steps to protect themselves, like wearing masks outdoors, using air purifiers at home, and staying indoors on particularly polluted days. Governments and organizations also play a crucial role in addressing this crisis by implementing policies aimed at reducing pollution.
Addressing air quality issues in Dhaka requires collective effort, from individuals to policymakers. The ongoing dialogue about these health risks is vital, and with concerted action, there’s hope for cleaner air in the future.
For more detailed insights on air quality and its impacts, you can visit the [World Health Organization](https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/air-pollution) website.
Source link
New Age, The New Age, Daily New Age, Bangladesh Newspaper, Most Popular Outspoken English Daily Newpaper in Bangladesh, Bangladeshi Newspapers, Bangladesh News, Latest Bangladesh News, Bangladesh Latest News, Bangla Online News
