Dhaka, the bustling capital of Bangladesh, recently ranked 9th globally for poor air quality, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) score of 160. This score puts the air in the “unhealthy” category, signaling significant health risks for city residents.
The AQI helps people understand air quality. For instance, a score of 50-100 indicates “moderate” air quality, where sensitive individuals should limit outdoor activities. Scores from 101-150 are considered “unhealthy for sensitive groups,” while anything above 150 falls into the “unhealthy” bracket. Anything exceeding 300 is deemed “hazardous,” posing major health threats.
In comparison, Lahore leads the pack with an alarming AQI of 284, followed by New Delhi at 189 and Hanoi at 187. These figures highlight a tough reality for many cities in South Asia, where air pollution has become a looming crisis.
Pollution in Dhaka stems from a mix of sources, including construction dust, vehicle emissions, and industrial waste. The situation worsens during winter and improves with the rainy season. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution leads to approximately seven million deaths globally each year, contributing to increased cases of heart disease, strokes, and respiratory illnesses.
Addressing this issue is not just about policy; community efforts can play a significant role. Some local organizations are planting trees and encouraging the use of bicycles to cut down vehicle emissions. Social media is abuzz with those sharing health tips and urging better air quality measures. The hashtag #CleanDhaka is gaining traction, as citizens express their concerns and push for change.
To combat air pollution, it’s essential to consider long-term solutions. A study from the World Bank indicates that every dollar spent on pollution control could yield health and economic benefits. Moving forward, an informed population is key, as communities need to understand the impact of air quality on health to advocate for cleaner air.
For more insights on air quality and public health, you can check findings from renowned organizations like the World Health Organization [here](https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/ambient (outdoor) air-quality-and-health).
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