Dhaka’s air quality remained in the “very unhealthy” category on Monday morning, ranking third among the world’s most polluted cities with an Air Quality Index (AQI) score of 262 at 9:30 a.m., according to the latest data.
The reading indicates a severe health risk for residents, as pollution levels continue to rise in the capital for the second consecutive day. In recent days, Dhaka’s air quality has fluctuated between “unhealthy for sensitive groups” and “unhealthy,” but it has now worsened to “very unhealthy,” sparking alarm among health experts.
According to the AQI scale, air quality between 201 and 300 is considered “very unhealthy,” meaning everyone may experience health effects, while those in sensitive groups face even more serious risks. Levels above 300 are deemed “hazardous,” posing grave dangers to public health.
On Monday, Delhi topped the global pollution list with an AQI of 490, followed by Lahore at 394. Dhaka ranked third, while Kolkata stood fourth, also with an AQI of 262.
The AQI measures five key pollutants: particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur dioxide (SO₂), and ozone (O₃). High concentrations of fine particulate matter—particularly PM2.5—are largely responsible for the capital’s poor air quality.
Dhaka has long struggled with air pollution, especially during winter, when lower rainfall and increased emissions from brick kilns, construction dust, and vehicle exhaust worsen the situation. Conditions typically improve during the monsoon season.
The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that air pollution causes around seven million premature deaths globally each year, linked to diseases such as stroke, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung cancer, and severe respiratory infections.
Public health experts urge Dhaka residents to minimize outdoor activities, wear protective masks, and keep indoor air as clean as possible as pollution levels remain dangerously high.
