On Saturday morning, Dhaka got some unwanted attention as it ranked 5th in the world for air pollution, according to the Air Quality Index (AQI). The city’s air quality was marked as ‘unhealthy’ with an AQI score of 175.
To give you a better picture, Delhi topped the list with a shocking score of 518, followed closely by Lahore at 344, Kolkata at 201, and Baghdad at 180. This means people in these cities are breathing air that poses serious health risks.
The AQI scale helps us understand the air quality. Scores between 101 and 150 mean the air is unhealthy for sensitive groups. If it’s between 150 and 200, it’s considered unhealthy for everyone. A score beyond 200? That’s seriously dangerous.
In Bangladesh, the AQI looks at five main pollutants: particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and ozone. Sadly, Dhaka has been struggling with air pollution for years, especially during winter when air quality dips. Fortunately, things tend to improve in the monsoon season.
This issue isn’t just a local concern; air pollution is a global crisis. According to the World Health Organization, about seven million people die each year due to air pollution-related issues such as strokes, heart disease, and lung diseases. That’s a staggering number, and it highlights the urgency of addressing this problem.
Recent studies indicate that public awareness regarding air quality is rising, and more people are turning to social media to express their concerns. Many users are actively discussing the health impacts and advocating for cleaner air solutions. This growing awareness can lead to community efforts aimed at tackling pollution.
As urban populations grow, cities face increasing pressure to improve air quality. Some cities have started using technology, such as air quality monitoring apps, to keep residents informed. This trend may encourage more proactive behaviors in reducing pollution sources.
Ultimately, understanding and tackling air quality is crucial for our health and future. Small changes in individual and community practices can make a significant difference. For more in-depth information on air quality, you can check out this [World Health Organization report](https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/ambient-(outdoor)-air-quality-and-health).
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