Dhaka’s Air Quality Alert: Unhealthy Levels for Sensitive Groups with AQI at 129—What You Need to Know

Dhaka, the bustling capital of Bangladesh, recently ranked sixth among cities with the worst air quality, recording an Air Quality Index (AQI) score of 129. This score indicates that the air is ‘unhealthy for sensitive groups,’ meaning people with certain health conditions should take precautions.

Air quality shifted from unhealthy yesterday, when the AQI reached 152. To understand these numbers better, here’s how the AQI is categorized: scores from 50 to 100 are ‘moderate,’ indicating that most people are fine outdoors; scores between 101 and 150 are ‘unhealthy for sensitive groups’; scores of 151 to 200 are ‘unhealthy’; 201 to 300 is ‘very unhealthy’; and a score above 300 is ‘hazardous,’ which can significantly affect everyone’s health.

For context, the cities leading the list for poor air quality are Lahore, Delhi, and Santiago, with AQI scores of 179, 159, and 156, respectively. The AQI measures daily air quality based on five pollutants: particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and ozone. This index helps residents understand how clean the air is and what health risks they may face.

Dhaka’s air quality has been a longstanding issue. Pollution often peaks in winter and improves during the monsoon season. Interestingly, a report from the World Health Organization states that air pollution is responsible for approximately seven million deaths globally each year. This staggering figure highlights the serious health risks associated with poor air quality, including respiratory issues and heart disease.

Experts note that urbanization and rapid industrialization contribute significantly to Dhaka’s air issues. As more vehicles hit the roads and construction projects multiply, the need for sustainable solutions becomes urgent. Communities and local governments may need to collaborate more to improve air quality and protect public health.

In the age of social media, public sentiment about air quality is growing. Many people express concern online, sharing tips on how to stay safe during pollution spikes. This collective awareness is crucial; as residents advocate for better air policies, it can lead to more significant change.

Ultimately, while the air quality in Dhaka poses real challenges, public awareness and action can play a vital role in promoting healthier living conditions.

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