Dhaka, May 7 — As per recent data, Dhaka, the densely populated capital of Bangladesh, has claimed the third spot for having some of the poorest air quality among global urban centers. This morning, specifically at 9:35 am (on May 7, 2025), the Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded a score of 169 here.
The air quality today was categorized as ‘unhealthy,’ indicating a significant risk to health, based on the AQI index.
Although Dhaka’s air quality was categorized as ‘moderate’ with an AQI of 97 on Tuesday morning, it deteriorated to ‘unhealthy’ status the following day.
If the Air Quality Index (AQI) level for particulate matter ranges from 50 to 100, the air quality is classified as ‘Moderate’. In this situation, people who are more susceptible might want to avoid extended periods of strenuous activity outdoors. When the index falls within 101 to 150, it’s labeled ‘Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups,’ indicating those with sensitivities ought to take precautions. An AQI between 150 and 200 is marked ‘Unhealthy’; during these times, everyone may experience adverse effects. If the levels reach between 201 and 300, they’re categorized as ‘Very Unhealthy’—posing significant hazards even to healthy individuals. Lastly, an AQI exceeding 301 signals ‘Hazardous’ conditions, which can severely endanger public health.
In descending order, Pakistan’s Lahore, China’s Wuhan, and the Philippines’ Manila secured the top three positions on the list, recording Air Quality Index values of 177, 172, and 162 respectively.
The air quality in Dhaka was deemed unhealthy for sensitive groups early this morning.
The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a metric used to report the cleanliness or pollution level of the air in a specific city each day, along with potential health impacts individuals should be aware of.
The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Bangladesh takes into account five major pollutants: particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and ozone.
Dhaka has long been grappling with air pollution issues. Its air quality usually turns unhealthy in winter and improves during the monsoon.
As per World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution kills an estimated seven million people worldwide every year, mainly due to increased mortality from stroke, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer, and acute respiratory infections.
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