Dhaka, the bustling capital of Bangladesh, recently ranked second among the cities with the worst air quality, hitting an alarming AQI score of 266. This marked another day of ‘very unhealthy’ air, raising significant health concerns for residents. Over the past few days, the city’s air quality has consistently been a problem, urging immediate attention.
The Air Quality Index (AQI) categorizes air quality into several levels. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- 50-100: Moderate – Sensitivity might be a concern for some.
- 101-150: Unhealthy for sensitive groups.
- 151-200: Unhealthy – General public may start to experience health effects.
- 201-300: Very unhealthy – Health alert for everyone.
- 301 and above: Hazardous – Serious health risks for all.
Other cities experiencing similar pollution levels include Lahore, Delhi, and Cairo, with Lahore leading at an AQI of 408, followed by Delhi at 261, and Cairo at 259. These figures highlight a troubling trend across South Asia.
The AQI in Bangladesh is based on five key pollutants: particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and ozone. With pollution often peaking in winter and improving in the monsoon, Dhaka’s air quality fluctuates significantly throughout the year.
Experts warn that air pollution is a major global health issue. The World Health Organization estimates it causes about seven million premature deaths each year, primarily from diseases like stroke, heart disease, and respiratory infections. A recent study showed that children exposed to high levels of air pollution may develop respiratory issues or worsened asthma, indicating the urgent need for action.
The public’s response has been strong, with many raising awareness through social media. Viral posts highlight the dangers of pollution, urging citizens to limit outdoor activities during peak smog. Initiatives to plant more trees and increase green spaces in the city are gaining traction as potential solutions to this crisis.
Clearly, the air in Dhaka needs improvement. Collective efforts from the government, organizations, and the community can lead to effective change. For more details on air quality measurements and their implications, check the [World Health Organization](https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/ambient-(outdoor)-air-quality-and-health) for comprehensive guidelines and insights.
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