Dhaka, Feb 15, (V7N) - Despite being a holiday, Dhaka's air quality continues to pose serious health risks. The air quality index (AQI) of the capital remained at 204, a level classified as ‘very unhealthy’ according to the Air Quality Index guidelines. This marks a significant decline in air quality, as the city continues to struggle with severe pollution.

According to data from IQAir, a leading Switzerland-based air quality monitoring platform, Dhaka ranked second among the world's 125 most polluted cities as of 8 AM today. The city had also recorded ‘very unhealthy’ air quality on the previous day, further highlighting the persistence of hazardous air conditions in the capital.

The level of pollution has raised serious concerns for public health, especially for vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions. The AQI of 204 signals that residents may experience severe health effects, even from brief exposure to outdoor air, including shortness of breath, irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, and a higher risk of asthma attacks.

Experts continue to warn that prolonged exposure to such poor air quality can have long-term health impacts. It is strongly advised that residents minimize outdoor activities and use air purifiers indoors when possible. Medical professionals also recommend wearing N95 or similar masks for protection against the harmful particulate matter suspended in the air.

The severe pollution levels in Dhaka have sparked calls for urgent measures to address the sources of pollution. Environmental experts are urging the government to take immediate action to improve the city's air quality by promoting cleaner energy alternatives, regulating industrial emissions, reducing vehicular pollution, and increasing green spaces.

As the capital remains at the forefront of global air pollution, residents and public health officials alike are calling for the implementation of long-term strategies to combat this growing environmental crisis.

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