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DHAKA: Dhaka ranked fourth among the world’s most polluted cities on Friday, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) score of 181 at 9am, indicating unhealthy air quality.
The day coincided with the Hindu community’s major religious festival, Durga Puja, and the weekly holiday, when many city residents might have hoped to enjoy a break from their busy routines. However, the city’s air quality offered little relief.
According to global air quality monitoring platform AQI, Singapore topped the list with a score of 236, followed by Indonesia’s capital Jakarta at 189 and Pakistan’s Lahore at 184.
An AQI score between 151 and 200 is considered unhealthy, meaning the air poses health risks to residents.
Experts identify vehicle emissions, uncontrolled construction activities and smoke from brick kilns as major sources of air pollution in the capital. Airborne dust and harmful gases tend to increase as the dry season begins. Poorly managed construction sites and inadequate preventive measures further contribute to the deterioration of air quality.
Health experts have expressed concern over the situation, warning that unhealthy air is particularly dangerous for children, older adults and people with pre-existing respiratory or lung conditions.
They have advised residents to avoid unnecessary outdoor activities, even on holidays. Those who need to go outside are encouraged to wear masks to reduce exposure to dust and harmful particles.
Experts have also stressed the need to strengthen effective air pollution control measures across the city.
