Dhaka, Jan 11, (V7N) - Dhaka has been ranked second on the list of cities with the worst air quality, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) score of 243 at 8:58 AM today. The air was classified as "very unhealthy," meaning it poses significant health risks to the general population. This is according to the AQI index for Saturday.

India's Kolkata, Delhi, and Mumbai ranked first, third, and fourth on the list, with AQI scores of 299, 215, and 210, respectively. A score of 299 places Kolkata in the hazardous zone, where the air quality can cause serious health issues.

The AQI system measures air quality based on the levels of five pollutants: particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and ozone. According to the AQI scale:

An AQI score between 50 and 100 is considered "moderate."

An AQI between 101 and 150 is deemed "unhealthy for sensitive groups."

Scores between 150 and 200 are classified as "unhealthy."

Scores between 201 and 300 are considered "very unhealthy."

Scores above 301 are deemed "hazardous."

Dhaka has been grappling with air pollution for years. The air quality worsens during winter due to a combination of factors, including lower temperatures, high vehicular emissions, and industrial activities. However, during the monsoon season, the air quality improves.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has highlighted the deadly impact of air pollution, attributing it as a leading cause of premature deaths worldwide. The WHO estimates that around seven million people die each year due to air pollution-related diseases, including stroke, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung cancer, and acute respiratory infections.

Residents of Dhaka are advised to limit outdoor activities, wear protective masks, and ensure proper ventilation indoors to minimize exposure to harmful air pollutants.

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