Dhaka, the bustling capital of Bangladesh, recently ranked 22nd in a list of cities with the worst air quality, registering an AQI score of 119 one Monday morning. This rating put the air quality in the ‘unhealthy for sensitive groups’ category, signaling potential health risks.
The Air Quality Index (AQI) helps us understand how clean or polluted the air is. Here’s a quick breakdown of the AQI scale: scores between 50 and 100 are ‘moderate,’ which means sensitive individuals might want to limit outdoor activities. A score of 101 to 150 falls into the ‘unhealthy for sensitive groups’ category, while anything above 150 signals worse conditions. For example, a score over 300 is classified as ‘hazardous’ and poses serious health risks.
In comparison, Delhi, Kabul, and Cairo topped the list with scores of 332, 289, and 206, respectively, showing a global trend of deteriorating air quality in major cities.
Dhaka’s air quality issues are not new. The city often faces worse pollution levels during winter, with improvements usually seen during the monsoon. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), around seven million people die each year from air pollution-related issues, mainly due to diseases like heart disease, stroke, and respiratory infections. This alarming trend highlights the urgent need for action to combat air pollution.
Interestingly, a recent study from the University of Dhaka found that 70% of residents are aware of the health impacts of poor air quality but often feel powerless to change their circumstances. This sentiment echoes across many cities facing similar challenges. As air quality continues to decline, communities are increasingly turning to social media to share their experiences and advocate for cleaner air.
In Bangladesh, the AQI is measured based on five pollutants: particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and ozone. Effective measures to tackle air pollution are crucial not just for Dhaka, but for cities worldwide struggling with similar issues.
For further information on air quality and its effects, check out the World Health Organisation’s detailed reports on air pollution.
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