Dhaka, Bangladesh, finds itself at the forefront of a pressing issue: air pollution. As of April 1, 2024, the city's Air Quality Index (AQI) stands at a concerning 142, ranking it among the top 11 cities globally with the poorest air quality. Delving into the specifics reveals a distressing reality.

Understanding AQI Levels and Ramifications

The current AQI in Dhaka falls within the "unhealthy" range, posing potential health risks to its inhabitants. With a score between 101 and 150, residents face respiratory challenges and other health concerns. Leading the grim chart are Jakarta (Indonesia), Hanoi (Vietnam), and Chiang Mai (Thailand), with AQI scores of 177, 164, and 161, respectively. A worrying threshold looms beyond 300, marking air quality as "hazardous" and inflicting severe health hazards.

Identifying Pollutants and Their Impact

Bangladesh's AQI assessment centers on five key pollutants

1. Particulate Matter (PM10 and PM2.5): These minute particles infiltrate deep into the lungs, exacerbating respiratory issues.
2. Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2): Emitted from vehicles and industries, NO2 contributes to respiratory diseases and smog.
3. Carbon Monoxide (CO): A silent killer from combustion engines, CO impedes oxygen transport in the blood.
4. Sulfur Dioxide (SO2): Originating from fossil fuel combustion, SO2 irritates the respiratory system and worsens asthma.
5. Ozone: Ground-level ozone, unlike its beneficial counterpart in the upper atmosphere, harms lung tissue and worsens respiratory ailments.

Seasonal Trends

Dhaka grapples with intensified air pollution during winter, when stagnant air traps pollutants close to the ground. However, the monsoon season offers respite, with rain aiding in cleansing the air and dispersing pollutants.

The ramifications of air pollution extend far beyond Dhaka's borders. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates a staggering seven million annual deaths worldwide attributed to this crisis. Prolonged exposure to polluted air correlates with various health afflictions, including stroke, heart disease, lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and acute respiratory infections.