Dhaka’s Air Quality Declares ‘Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups’ with Alarming AQI of 147: What You Need to Know

Dhaka, Bangladesh, is facing serious air pollution challenges. Recently, it ranked 8th in the world for poor air quality, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) score of 147. This classification is labeled ‘unhealthy for sensitive groups,’ signaling health risks for many residents.

For context, cities like Delhi, Lahore, Kolkata, and Tashkent topped the list with alarming AQI scores of 589, 268, 194, and 165, respectively. This shows just how widespread air quality issues are in South Asia.

The AQI measures daily air quality, letting us know how clean or polluted the air is. Scores vary: 50 to 100 is ‘moderate,’ meaning air quality is generally acceptable, but sensitive individuals should limit outdoor activities. An AQI between 101 and 150 shows air is ‘unhealthy for sensitive groups,’ while anything above 200 indicates serious health risks.

In Dhaka, the AQI is affected by various pollutants like particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and ozone. The city struggles especially during winter months when air quality worsens and tends to improve in the rainy season.

According to the World Health Organization, air pollution contributes to about seven million deaths worldwide each year. The leading causes include serious health conditions like stroke, heart disease, and respiratory infections. This stark reality highlights the urgent need for solutions in urban areas like Dhaka.

Recent discussions on social media reflect growing public concern. Many Dhaka residents are sharing their experiences regarding health problems related to poor air quality, showcasing a need for awareness and action. Some citizens advocate for stricter regulations on emissions and greener policies to combat pollution.

Experts suggest that education is vital. Local communities should be informed about the dangers of air pollution and how to protect themselves. Simple actions, like wearing masks during high pollution days, can make a difference.

For more information on global air quality and strategies to improve it, you can visit the [World Health Organization](https://www.who.int) website.

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