NN Online:
Dhaka has ranked as the most polluted city in the world today, with its Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching an alarming level of 241. According to Swiss-based air quality monitoring organization IQAir, the capital’s air is classified as ‘very unhealthy,’ posing serious health risks to residents.
The concentration of PM2.5 particles in Dhaka’s air has been recorded as 33.2 times higher than the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recommended air quality guidelines. The worst-affected areas include Savar and Madani Avenue, both recording an AQI of 372, categorized as ‘hazardous.’ Other areas such as the U.S. Embassy, Eastern Housing, Gulshan-2 Rob Bhaban, Tejgaon’s Shanta Forum, Grace International School, Gulshan Lake Park, and Mohakhali’s icddr,b have also reported ‘very unhealthy’ air quality levels.
IQAir has advised residents to take precautionary measures, including avoiding outdoor exercise, keeping windows and doors closed, and wearing masks while going outside.
On the global list, Lahore in Pakistan ranked second with an AQI of 211, categorized as ‘unhealthy.’ Kathmandu (Nepal), Delhi (India), and Krakow (Poland) followed in third, fourth, and fifth positions, respectively, all experiencing unhealthy air quality conditions.
IQAir defines air quality levels as follows: a score between 0-50 indicates good air quality, 51-100 is moderate, and 101-150 is unhealthy for sensitive groups. Scores from 151-200 are considered unhealthy, while 201-300 is categorized as ‘very unhealthy.’ Any AQI above 300 is deemed hazardous, indicating a severe air pollution crisis.
Experts warn that prolonged exposure to such high pollution levels could lead to severe respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, urging authorities to take immediate action to control air pollution in the capital.
