Dhaka, January 17, (V7N )– Bangladesh's overcrowded capital, Dhaka, recorded the world’s worst air quality on Friday morning, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) score of 255, classified as "very unhealthy."

The alarming AQI level poses severe health risks to residents, particularly those with pre-existing conditions. Air quality levels between:

151-200 are considered "unhealthy."

201-300 are classified as "very unhealthy."

301-400 are deemed "hazardous."

Global Ranking

Following Dhaka, the top cities with the worst air quality are:

1. Hanoi, Vietnam: AQI 234

2. Tashkent, Uzbekistan: AQI 201

3. Delhi, India: AQI 189

Contributors to Dhaka's Air Pollution

The AQI in Bangladesh monitors pollutants such as:

Particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5)

Nitrogen dioxide (NO2)

Carbon monoxide (CO)

Sulfur dioxide (SO2)

Ozone

Dhaka’s air quality deteriorates significantly during winter, as the cooler weather traps pollutants closer to the ground.

Global Context

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution is a leading cause of mortality, contributing to:

7 million deaths annually worldwide.

Increased risk of stroke, heart disease, lung cancer, and respiratory infections.

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