Dhaka Leads Global Ranking for Worst Morning Air Quality
This morning, Dhaka claimed the top spot on the global list of cities with the most severe air quality, registering an AQI score of 269 at 8:55 am. Classified as ‘very unhealthy,’ the air poses significant health risks to residents, according to the air quality index. Following closely behind were Accra in Ghana, Kampala in Uganda, and Mumbai in India, with AQI scores of 209, 189, and 188, respectively.
When the AQI value for particle pollution falls between 101 and 150, air quality is deemed ‘unhealthy for sensitive groups,’ while readings between 150 and 200 are categorized as ‘unhealthy.’ The range of 201 to 300 is labeled ‘very unhealthy,’ and a reading exceeding 301 is considered ‘hazardous,’ posing serious health risks.
The Air Quality Index (AQI) serves as a daily indicator of air quality, providing information on the cleanliness or pollution levels in a city and associated health effects. In Bangladesh, the AQI is based on five pollutants: particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), NO2, CO, SO2, and ozone.
Dhaka has been grappling with persistent air pollution issues, typically worsening in winter and improving during the monsoon season. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution is a global health concern, contributing to an estimated seven million annual deaths worldwide. Major health risks include increased mortality from stroke, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer, and acute respiratory infections.
Be First to Comment