Dhaka’s Air Quality Alert: AQI Hits 122, Poses Risks for Sensitive Groups

Dhaka, the bustling capital of Bangladesh, has recently been ranked ninth among cities with the worst air quality, recording an AQI score of 122. This condition is particularly concerning for sensitive groups, as indicated by the AQI index.

The Air Quality Index (AQI) helps us understand how polluted the air is and what health risks it may pose. When the AQI is between 50 and 100, air quality is moderate. However, when it reaches 101 to 150, it’s classified as unhealthy for sensitive groups. Scores above 150 become increasingly hazardous, with severe health implications when surpassing 300.

Qatar’s Doha, Bahrain’s Manama, and Chengdu in China lead the list, with significantly higher AQI scores of 231, 219, and 191. This highlights a growing global concern over air quality.

In Bangladesh, the AQI is determined by five key pollutants: particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and ozone. Dhaka has been struggling with air quality issues for years. The air tends to worsen in winter and shows improvement during monsoon seasons.

According to the World Health Organization, air pollution is a leading cause of death worldwide, claiming around seven million lives annually. This is largely due to health issues like strokes, heart disease, and respiratory conditions. Experts emphasize the urgency of tackling air pollution, citing its long-lasting impacts on public health. They recommend more green spaces and stricter regulations on emissions as potential solutions.

Online, social media debates about air quality are cropping up, with many residents sharing their own experiences and frustrations about the air they breathe. Several campaigns are also advocating for cleaner air, pushing local authorities to act swiftly.

The situation in Dhaka serves as a stark reminder of the importance of addressing air pollution not just locally, but globally. To learn more about the impact of air quality on health, you can check out [this WHO report](https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/ambient-(outdoor)-air-quality-and-health) for in-depth insights.

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