Breathing Easy in Dhaka: Air Quality Rated ‘Moderate’ with an AQI Score of 62

Dhaka’s air quality is a pressing issue. On a recent Saturday morning, it recorded a moderate air quality index (AQI) score of 62, placing 35th among the world’s cities with poor air. For context, Doha in Qatar topped the list with a score of 246, followed by Kampala in Uganda at 181 and Kinshasa in the Democratic Republic of the Congo at 163.

The AQI measures air pollution based on five key pollutants: particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and ozone. Scores range from 0 to over 300. An AQI between 50 and 100 is considered moderate, but individuals sensitive to air quality should limit outdoor activities. Scores above 100 signal increasing health risks, especially for vulnerable groups.

Historically, Dhaka’s air quality worsens in the winter months and tends to improve during the monsoon rains. This pattern is not just a local issue; studies show that globally, air pollution contributes to about seven million deaths annually, primarily from respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, as per the World Health Organization.

Experts emphasize the importance of addressing air quality not just for immediate health but for long-term public welfare. Recent reports indicate that outdoor air pollution is one of the top environmental risks today. Active engagement from the community and governmental initiatives can help combat this growing problem.

Staying informed and aware of daily air quality can significantly impact public health, especially in heavily populated cities like Dhaka. As residents continue to grapple with these challenges, awareness and action are more crucial than ever.

For more detailed statistics on air quality and its effects on health, you can refer to the World Health Organization’s reports.



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