• Mou Mou
• 17 Jan, 2025

According to the Air Quality Index (AQI) by IQAir Friday January 17th Dhaka has been ranked as the most polluted city in the world. The air quality in several parts of the city has reached ‘hazardous’ levels posing serious health risks to residents.

The AQI data, recorded at 9 AM revealed alarming pollution levels in key areas of Dhaka. For example

- US Embassy Area: AQI 334 (Hazardous)

- Mirpur’s Eastern Housing: AQI 308 (Hazardous)

Other locations such as Gulshan Lake Park (280), Hemayetpur in Savar (278), Kalyanpur (263) and Tejgaon’s Shanta Tower area (254) also reported severely unhealthy air quality.

Meanwhile, global rankings place  Hanoi, Vietnam  (AQI 234) and  Tashkent, Uzbekistan  (AQI 201) in the second and third positions respectively, both categorised as ‘very unhealthy.’

Understanding AQI Standards

The Air Quality Index is measured on a scale that determines the level of pollution: 

- 0–50: Good

- 51–100: Moderate

- 101–150: Unhealthy for sensitive groups

- 151–200: Unhealthy

- 201–300: Very unhealthy

- 301+: Hazardous

Any AQI above 300 is considered a disaster level for public health, as seen in Dhaka today.

Read More: Protect Yourself.....! 4 Crucial Steps Before Selling Your Old Android Phone.

Impact on Public Health

Hazardous air quality can cause severe respiratory and cardiovascular issues, especially in children, the elderly and those with pre-existing conditions. Experts urge residents to avoid outdoor activities and use air purifiers at home.

As Dhaka grapples with hazardous air quality urgent measures are required to tackle pollution and improve public health. Global and local cooperation is crucial to addressing this escalating crisis.