Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, recently ranked as the second worst city globally for air quality, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) score of 260. This level categorizes the air as very unhealthy. Delhi tops the list with a score of 299, while Chengdu in China follows with 219.
What does an AQI score mean? When the reading is between 101 and 200, there’s a heightened risk of health issues, especially for those with heart or lung conditions. As the numbers climb, the risks extend to more people. The AQI helps us understand daily air quality, informing us about pollution levels and their potential health effects.
In Bangladesh, the AQI is determined by five main pollutants: particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and ozone (O3). To protect public health, the Department of Environment has established national air quality standards for these pollutants.
Dhaka faces significant air pollution challenges, particularly during the dry season. Experts warn that air quality tends to worsen in this period, while the monsoon brings some relief. In fact, a study by the World Bank highlighted that air pollution contributes to approximately 80,000 premature deaths in Bangladesh each year, a stark reminder of the health implications of poor air quality.
Social media has been buzzing with reactions to the latest AQI ranking. Many residents express their frustration, sharing stories about respiratory issues and urging for better environmental policies. This highlights a growing awareness of the problem and a call for action.
Improving air quality is vital not just for health, but also for economic growth. Research shows that cleaner air can lead to increased productivity and reduced healthcare costs. Changing our daily habits, like using public transport or reducing waste, could help improve the situation.
For more information on air quality standards and pollution, check out the [World Health Organization](https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/air-quality-and-health) resources.
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