The capital city of Bangladesh has been ranked sixth among the cities with the worst air quality, recording an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 174 at 10:50 am on Friday, classifying the air as “unhealthy” and posing health risks to residents. 

Dhaka’s poor air quality has persisted for several days, with AQI readings consistently above 150. 

The AQI in Bangladesh is based on five pollutants: particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), NO2, CO, SO2, and ozone. Experts warn that exposure to unhealthy air can aggravate respiratory and cardiovascular conditions. 

Internationally, Lahore (Pakistan), Delhi and Kolkata (India) topped the list, with AQI scores of 304, 215, and 200, respectively. 

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution causes an estimated seven million deaths globally each year, primarily due to stroke, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer, and acute respiratory infections. 

Dhaka has long struggled with air pollution, which typically worsens in winter and improves during the monsoon season. Residents are advised to take precautions, especially children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions.

MN/