DHAKA, Jan 4, (V7N ) – Dhaka ranked 12th among cities with the worst air quality globally on Saturday morning, recording an Air Quality Index (AQI) score of 160, indicating "unhealthy" air conditions.

China's Wuhan (AQI 271), Vietnam's Hanoi (253), and Pakistan's Karachi (237) occupied the top three spots for the worst air quality.

Understanding AQI Ratings

101-150: Unhealthy for sensitive groups

151-200: Unhealthy

201-300: Very unhealthy

301+: Hazardous, posing severe health risks

The AQI provides insights into daily air quality, informing citizens about the pollution level and associated health concerns.

Pollution in Dhaka

Dhaka has long struggled with air pollution, particularly during the winter months when air quality deteriorates due to dry weather, increased dust, and emissions. In contrast, the monsoon season typically brings some improvement.

The AQI in Bangladesh measures five pollutants:

1. Particulate Matter (PM10 and PM2.5)

2. Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2)

3. Carbon Monoxide (CO)

4. Sulfur Dioxide (SO2)

5. Ozone

Global Health Concerns

Air pollution is one of the leading risk factors for mortality worldwide, contributing to heart diseases, chronic respiratory conditions, lung infections, and cancer. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that air pollution causes around seven million deaths annually.

Improving air quality remains a critical challenge for Dhaka and many other cities worldwide, requiring concerted efforts from governments, industries, and citizens.

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