Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, has ranked tenth among cities with the worst air quality, registering an AQI score of 152 at 9:50 AM on Friday. 

The air quality was classified as ‘unhealthy,’ indicating a health threat to residents.

The Air Quality Index (AQI) measures the concentration of air pollutants and provides a guide for potential health risks. With a score between 101 and 150, the air quality in Dhaka falls under the ‘unhealthy for sensitive groups’ category, which can affect individuals with respiratory or heart conditions.

Cities such as Delhi, Lahore, and Tashkent topped the list with AQI scores of 263, 168, and 164, respectively. 

The AQI in Bangladesh is calculated based on pollutants like particulate matter (PM10, PM2.5), NO2, CO, SO2, and ozone.

Dhaka has been struggling with air pollution for years, with quality deteriorating during the winter months and improving during the monsoon season. 

The World Health Organization (WHO) attributes around seven million global deaths annually to air pollution, mainly from respiratory diseases, heart conditions, and lung cancer.

Authorities warn residents, especially those in sensitive groups, to limit outdoor activities during periods of poor air quality.

BDST: 1136 HRS, MAR 14, 2025
MN