Dhaka, Bangladesh’s overcrowded capital, ranked fifth on the global list for cities with the worst air quality, recording an AQI score of 175 at 8:45 am on Friday. 

This level of air quality, categorized as "unhealthy," poses a significant health risk to residents. 

The hazardous air quality has persisted for several days, with particles in the air reaching dangerous levels.

The AQI system classifies air quality based on pollution levels, with scores between 101-150 labeled "unhealthy for sensitive groups" and 151-200 considered "unhealthy." Dhaka’s AQI of 175 falls under the latter, indicating a health threat to the general population.

Cities like Hanoi, Lahore, and Delhi topped the list with AQI scores of 233, 209, and 190, respectively.

The AQI measures air pollution based on five key pollutants: PM10, PM2.5, NO2, CO, SO2, and ozone. While Dhaka’s air quality often worsens in the winter months, the city is facing a consistent struggle with pollution year-round.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution is responsible for around seven million deaths annually worldwide, contributing to various serious health conditions like heart disease, stroke, and respiratory infections.

BDST: 1103 HRS, MAR 21, 2025
MN