The capital of Bangladesh, Dhaka, has been ranked as the world’s second most polluted city, with its air quality reaching ‘very unhealthy’ levels, according to the Air Quality Index (AQI).

As of 8:15 AM on Saturday (March 8), Dhaka recorded an AQI score of 208, indicating severe air pollution that poses significant health risks. Lahore, Pakistan, topped the list with an AQI score of 259.

An AQI reading between 101 and 200 is classified as ‘unhealthy’ for sensitive groups, while a score between 201 and 300 falls into the ‘very unhealthy’ category. 

Readings exceeding 300 are considered ‘hazardous’, posing serious health threats to residents.

Air pollution has been a persistent issue in Dhaka, with air quality typically deteriorating in winter and showing slight improvement during the monsoon season.

BDST: 1057 HRS, MAR 08, 2025
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