Dhaka Ranked 5th Most Polluted City: Unpacking the Alarming AQI Score of 175

Dhaka, the bustling capital of Bangladesh, is facing a serious challenge with air quality. Recently, it ranked fifth globally for poor air quality, registering an Air Quality Index (AQI) score of 175. This falls into the ‘unhealthy’ category, signaling a health risk for its residents.

For reference, air quality is classified based on AQI scores. An AQI of 50-100 is ‘moderate,’ with suggestions for sensitive individuals to limit outdoor activities. When scores rise to 101-150, it’s deemed ‘unhealthy for sensitive groups.’ Anything between 150 and 200 is ‘unhealthy,’ while scores from 201 to 300 are marked as ‘very unhealthy.’ Scores above 301 are considered ‘hazardous.’ Each level indicates increasing health risks.

To put this into perspective, cities like Hanoi, Lahore, and Delhi are even worse off, with AQI scores of 233, 209, and 190, respectively. This highlights a regional crisis in air pollution.

But what contributes to Dhaka’s poor air quality? The AQI takes into account five main pollutants: particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and ozone. The combination of vehicle emissions, industrial discharges, and construction dust contributes significantly to these pollutants. During the winter months, air quality typically worsens, whereas it tends to improve during monsoon season.

Data from the World Health Organization (WHO) illustrates the global context of this issue. Air pollution is responsible for about seven million deaths each year, largely from conditions like strokes, heart diseases, and respiratory illnesses. Dhaka’s pollution levels not only affect the local population but mirror a larger health crisis faced worldwide.

There’s growing awareness of air quality issues, amplified by social media platforms where residents share updates and concerns. Many are calling for better regulations and action from local authorities to combat this health crisis. Conversations around the environment have shifted significantly, with users advocating for cleaner transport options and stricter industrial emissions controls.

In summary, air quality in Dhaka remains a pressing issue, reflecting broader environmental challenges faced by cities around the world. As the conversation continues, it’s vital for both individuals and governing bodies to address air pollution proactively. For more detailed statistics and information, you can refer to the WHO’s [report on air quality](https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/air-pollution) to understand the global impact of this ongoing crisis.

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