Dhaka's Air Turns 'Unhealthy' Again

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Dhaka's Air Turns 'Unhealthy' Again

Dhaka Faces Severe Air Quality Crisis

On November 27, Dhaka, the densely populated capital of Bangladesh, has been ranked 16th on the list of cities with the worst air quality. The city recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) score of 144 at 9:50 am on that day, marking the air as 'unhealthy' according to the AQI index. This is a significant concern for residents, as it indicates an alarming threat to public health.

The situation was even more severe the previous day when the AQI in Dhaka reached 205, classifying the air quality as 'very unhealthy'. This highlights the urgent need for action to mitigate the effects of air pollution in the city.

Understanding the AQI scale is essential for assessing the health risks associated with air pollution. When the AQI value for particle pollution falls between 50 and 100, the air quality is considered 'moderate', and sensitive individuals should limit prolonged outdoor exertion. Between 101 and 150, the air quality is categorized as 'unhealthy for sensitive groups'. When the AQI ranges from 150 to 200, it is deemed 'unhealthy', while a reading between 201 and 300 is labeled 'very unhealthy'. An AQI of 301 or higher is considered 'hazardous', posing serious health risks to the population.

In comparison, other cities in South Asia also face similar challenges. India's Delhi, Pakistan's Lahore, and India's Kolkata occupied the first, second, and third positions respectively on the list, with AQI scores of 493, 226, and 215. These high readings underscore the severity of air pollution across the region.

The AQI serves as an important tool for reporting daily air quality. It provides information on how clean or polluted the air in a specific city is and alerts people to potential health concerns. In Bangladesh, the AQI is calculated based on five key pollutants: particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and ozone.

Longstanding Air Pollution Issues in Dhaka

Dhaka has long struggled with air pollution, particularly during the winter months when the air quality tends to deteriorate significantly. However, the monsoon season usually brings some relief, as the rain helps to wash away pollutants from the atmosphere. Despite this seasonal variation, the persistent problem of air pollution remains a major public health challenge for the city.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution is responsible for an estimated seven million deaths worldwide each year. These fatalities are primarily attributed to increased mortality rates from stroke, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer, and acute respiratory infections. The data emphasizes the critical need for effective measures to combat air pollution and protect public health.

Key Pollutants and Their Impact

The primary pollutants contributing to poor air quality in Dhaka include:

  • Particulate Matter (PM10 and PM2.5): These fine particles can penetrate deep into the lungs and cause serious health issues.
  • Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2): Often emitted from vehicle exhaust, NO2 can irritate the respiratory system and exacerbate conditions like asthma.
  • Carbon Monoxide (CO): A colorless, odorless gas that can be fatal in high concentrations, CO affects the body's ability to carry oxygen.
  • Sulfur Dioxide (SO2): Released from burning fossil fuels, SO2 can cause respiratory problems and contribute to acid rain.
  • Ozone: A major component of smog, ground-level ozone can cause breathing difficulties and aggravate existing respiratory conditions.

The Need for Immediate Action

Given the severity of the air quality crisis in Dhaka, there is an urgent need for comprehensive strategies to reduce pollution levels. This includes implementing stricter emissions standards, promoting cleaner energy sources, and enhancing public awareness about the health impacts of air pollution.

As the city continues to grapple with these challenges, the well-being of its residents remains at the forefront of the discussion. Addressing air pollution is not just a matter of environmental concern but a critical public health imperative.


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