Dhaka, the bustling capital of Bangladesh, topped the charts recently as the world’s most polluted city, recording an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 271. This level indicates the air quality is ‘very unhealthy’—a serious health concern for residents.
To put this in perspective, cities like Bishkek in Kyrgyzstan, Karachi in Pakistan, and Kolkata in India ranked second, third, and fourth with AQI scores of 215, 208, and 200, respectively. According to the AQI scale, a score above 200 is particularly alarming. To give you an idea, an AQI of 50 to 100 is considered ‘moderate,’ while anything above 300 is categorized as ‘hazardous’—a warning sign for those with health issues.
The AQI monitors five major pollutants, including particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and ozone. In daily reports, it helps residents gauge how polluted their air is and understand the potential health impacts. Air pollution is a known risk factor, contributing to about seven million deaths globally each year, according to the World Health Organization. This is mainly due to conditions like stroke, heart disease, and respiratory infections.
Dhaka’s struggle with air pollution isn’t new. The city faces worsening air quality during the winter months, while the monsoon usually brings some relief. Experts suggest that urban planning and stricter regulations could mitigate these pollution levels. For instance, improving public transportation and reducing vehicle emissions are critical steps.
Moreover, a recent survey indicated that more than 60% of Dhaka’s residents are concerned about air pollution affecting their health. Social media discussions often buzz with frustrations about the government’s slow response to this pressing issue, highlighting a call for immediate action.
In a world increasingly aware of air quality’s impact on health, cities need to prioritize measures that enhance urban sustainability. While individual actions, like wearing masks or using air purifiers at home, can help, systemic changes are essential for long-term solutions.
For more detailed information on air quality standards, visit the World Health Organization’s page on air pollution.
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
