Dhaka‘s Air Quality Declines, Poses Risk to Sensitive groups
Updated November 27, 2023
Dhaka, Bangladesh – The densely populated capital city of Dhaka ranked eighth globally for the worst air quality on Monday morning, November 27, 2023, registering an Air Quality Index (AQI) score of 107 at 9:40 am local time.This reading classifies the air as “unhealthy for sensitive groups,” indicating potential health risks for vulnerable populations.
The AQI had previously been in the moderate range for several days prior to this shift. Understanding the AQI scale is crucial: a value between 50 and 100 signifies “moderate” air quality, advising sensitive individuals to limit prolonged outdoor activity. Values between 101 and 150, as currently seen in Dhaka, are considered “unhealthy for sensitive groups.” Further deterioration leads to “unhealthy” (150-200),”very unhealthy” (201-300),and “hazardous” (301+) conditions,each presenting escalating health concerns.
According to the latest data, Jakarta, Indonesia, topped the list with an AQI of 176, followed by kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo (162), and Cairo, Egypt (153). These cities are currently experiencing considerably higher levels of air pollution than Dhaka.
What is the Air Quality Index?
The AQI serves as a vital tool for communicating daily air quality details to the public, highlighting both the cleanliness and pollution levels and the potential health impacts. In Bangladesh, the AQI is calculated based on the concentration of five key pollutants: particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and ozone.
Dhaka has historically struggled with air pollution, a problem that typically worsens during the winter months and improves with the arrival of the monsoon season. Factors contributing to this include vehicle emissions, industrial activity, construction, and seasonal weather patterns.
“Air pollution is a major environmental health problem affecting everyone in developed and developing countries alike,” notes the World Health Institution (WHO).
The WHO estimates that air pollution contributes to approximately seven million premature deaths worldwide each year. These deaths are largely attributed to increased rates of stroke,heart disease,chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD),lung cancer,and acute respiratory infections.Exposure to polluted air can exacerbate existing respiratory and cardiovascular conditions, and even contribute to the development of new ones.
Disclaimer: This article provides information about air quality and potential health risks. It is not intended to provide medical advice. If you are experiencing health problems, please consult a healthcare professional.
