Mar 05 (V7N) - Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, has once again topped the global list of cities with the worst air quality, recording an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 171 at 9:05 AM on March 5, 2025. This level is categorized as "unhealthy," posing health risks to residents. The global ranking at that time placed Beijing, China, second with an AQI of 167, followed by Kampala, Uganda, and Chiang Mai, Thailand, with AQIs of 161 and 160, respectively.

The AQI classification system indicates that an AQI between 151 and 200 is considered unhealthy, meaning it poses health risks for everyone. Dhaka's air pollution is primarily caused by particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and ozone (O3). The city experiences peak pollution levels during winter, with slight improvements during the monsoon season.

Air pollution in Dhaka and globally is a significant health concern. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution causes approximately 7 million deaths annually worldwide due to conditions like stroke, heart disease, lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and acute respiratory infections. Experts recommend immediate measures to reduce emissions, control dust pollution, and enhance urban greenery to combat Dhaka's worsening air quality.

The persistent air quality issues in Dhaka highlight the need for comprehensive strategies to mitigate pollution sources, including industrial emissions, vehicle exhaust, and construction dust. Implementing stricter regulations and promoting sustainable practices are crucial steps towards improving the city's air quality and reducing the associated health risks.

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