Dhaka‍‍`s air pollution levels remain alarming

The Report Desk

Published: October 22, 2024, 11:53 AM

Dhaka‍‍`s air pollution levels remain alarming

Polluted air in Dhaka city. Source: Collected

Air pollution in Dhaka shows no signs of improvement, as the city has been classified as unhealthy for four consecutive days. 
On Tuesday morning, it ranked seventh among 121 cities globally in air quality, with a pollution score of 161, according to data from IQAir.

IQAir, a Swiss organization that monitors air quality, provides real-time information about pollution levels in various cities. 
Currently, Dhaka‍‍`s air quality is part of a concerning trend, with Lahore, Pakistan, at the top with a score of 411, followed by Delhi, India, at 270.

IQAir categorizes air quality based on scores: 51 to 100 is considered moderate, 101 to 150 is unhealthy for sensitive groups (including the elderly, children, the ill, and pregnant women), 151 to 200 is unhealthy, and 201 to 300 is very unhealthy. 
Scores above 301 are classified as hazardous.

The air quality in Dhaka today poses health risks for everyone, especially in areas like Hemayetpur, Arambagh, and the ICDDRB office region, which are experiencing higher pollution levels. 
The main pollutant affecting the city is particulate matter (PM 2.5), which is currently around 12% above the World Health Organization‍‍`s recommended levels.

In response to these conditions, IQAir advises people to wear masks when outside, avoid exercising in open spaces, and keep windows closed to reduce exposure to pollution.

Link copied!