Dhaka's air quality continues to be a major concern, with the city ranking third on the global list of cities with the worst air quality. As of 9:45 AM on March 19, 2025, the Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 189, classifying the air as "unhealthy" and posing a health risk to residents.
According to the AQI scale, an index score between 150 and 200 indicates "unhealthy" air, which can affect everyone, not just sensitive groups. Scores between 50 and 100 are considered "moderate," while values between 101 and 150 are labeled "unhealthy for sensitive groups." Higher readings, ranging from 201 to 300, fall under "very unhealthy," and scores over 301 are considered "hazardous."
Cities across South Asia are grappling with poor air quality, with Pakistan’s Lahore and India’s Delhi topping the list at AQI scores of 222 and 221, respectively. Bahrain’s Manama follows Dhaka with an AQI of 174.
The AQI measures pollution based on five key pollutants: particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and ozone. Dhaka’s air quality typically worsens in the winter and improves during the monsoon season.
The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that air pollution contributes to the deaths of seven million people globally each year, with increased risks of heart disease, stroke, lung cancer, and respiratory infections.
