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Dhaka’s air quality remained in the ‘moderate’ category on Tuesday morning, ranking 19th among cities with the worst air pollution in the world, according to real-time air monitoring data.
At 9:10 am, the capital recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) score of 84, indicating acceptable air quality for most people, although unusually sensitive individuals may experience minor health effects.
Indonesia’s capital, Jakarta, topped the global pollution list with an AQI score of 177, followed by Delhi at 163 and Lahore at 161.
Under the AQI scale, a score between 51 and 100 is classified as moderate, meaning air quality is generally acceptable, though it may pose a limited health concern for people who are particularly sensitive to air pollution.
An AQI reading of 101-150 is considered unhealthy for sensitive groups, while 151-200 is classified as unhealthy. Readings between 201 and 300 are deemed very unhealthy, and levels above 301 are considered hazardous, posing serious health risks to the general population.
In Bangladesh, the AQI is calculated using five key pollutants: fine particulate matter (PM2.5), coarse particulate matter (PM10), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), carbon monoxide (CO), sulphur dioxide (SO₂), and ozone.
Dhaka’s air quality typically deteriorates during the dry winter months because of dust, emissions from vehicles and industries, and construction activities. Air quality generally improves during the monsoon season as rainfall helps reduce airborne pollutants.
Health experts warn that prolonged exposure to polluted air can increase the risk of respiratory illnesses, cardiovascular disease and other long-term health problems, particularly among children, older adults and people with pre-existing medical conditions.
