Dhaka Air Pollution Ranking: World’s Most Polluted City

Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, has officially claimed the top spot as the most polluted city in the world. According to the Air Quality Index (AQI) data, the city’s air quality reached a dangerous score of 411. This score places Dhaka in the ‘hazardous’ category, signaling a serious threat to public health. This marks Dhaka air pollution ranking at the highest level globally. Let’s take a closer look at Dhaka’s air pollution and other highly polluted cities around the globe.

1. Dhaka Air Pollution Ranking: The Hazardous Status

• Dhaka’s air quality is considered hazardous, with an AQI score of 411.
• This hazardous level directly affects the health of residents. Vulnerable groups like children, the old people, and patients with pre-existing conditions are especially impacted.
• The pollution is primarily caused by a combination of vehicle emissions, industrial activities, and construction work.
• The high AQI score indicates a significant risk of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.

2. Other Top Polluted Cities in the World

Following Dhaka, several other cities rank high on the list of the top polluted cities in the world:

• Sarajevo, Bosnia-Herzegovina:
  • Sarajevo holds the second spot, with an AQI score of 334.
  • Like Dhaka, Sarajevo’s air quality is categorized as hazardous, affecting the health of its residents.
• Kolkata, India:
  • Kolkata ranks third with an AQI score of 276.
  • The city falls into the ’emergency’ category, with health risks escalating for the general population.

These cities face similar challenges with high levels of particulate matter, vehicle emissions, and industrial pollutants.

3. Understanding AQI and Health Risks

The Air Quality Index (AQI) measures the pollution levels in the air based on five key pollutants:

• PM10 and PM2.5
• NO2 (Nitrogen Dioxide)
• CO (Carbon Monoxide)
• SO2 (Sulfur Dioxide)
• Ozone (O3)

When the AQI index reaches 151-200, it signals a moderate health risk. However, when the AQI climbs beyond 300, as seen in Dhaka, it becomes an emergency. It threatens the well-being of all citizens.

4. Measures to Combat Air Pollution

To address the rising pollution levels, authorities in Dhaka and other polluted cities must take action. Some steps include:

• Reducing emissions from vehicles and factories.
• Encouraging the use of cleaner energy and promoting electric vehicles.
• Expanding green spaces to improve air quality.

Public awareness campaigns are also crucial in educating citizens about the health risks of poor air quality.

5. Dhaka Air Pollution Ranking: A Growing Concern

In conclusion, the Dhaka air pollution ranking highlights the urgent need for comprehensive solutions. As the world’s most polluted city, Dhaka’s AQI score reflects the severe impact on public health. Residents and authorities must collaborate to reduce pollution and improve air quality. Dhaka must take proactive measures to prevent further deterioration of air quality. Other top polluted cities in the world should do the same.

Reference: IQAir