Dhaka, the densely populated capital of Bangladesh, has once again emerged as the world’s most polluted city, according to early Tuesday morning readings. Residents woke to a hazardous air quality alert, prompting immediate health warnings, particularly for children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions.
Real-time monitoring by the international air quality platform IQAir reports Dhaka’s Air Quality Index (AQI) at 241, categorised as “very unhealthy.” This level indicates serious health risks, with experts advising vulnerable populations to remain indoors and the general public to limit outdoor activity. While the city had experienced temporary improvements in air quality in recent weeks, levels have now surged alarmingly, signalling a return to extreme pollution conditions.
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Regional Air Pollution Rankings
Dhaka’s current pollution crisis places it above other heavily polluted South Asian cities. The top five cities in the global AQI rankings on Tuesday are:
| Rank | City | Country | AQI Score | Health Category |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Dhaka | Bangladesh | 241 | Very Unhealthy |
| 2 | Delhi | India | 218 | Very Unhealthy |
| 3 | Lahore | Pakistan | 215 | Very Unhealthy |
| 4 | Kathmandu | Nepal | 192 | Unhealthy |
| 5 | Yangon | Myanmar | 171 | Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups |
IQAir classifies AQI levels from 0–50 as “good,” 201–300 as “very unhealthy,” and 301–400 as “hazardous,” the latter posing severe risks even for otherwise healthy individuals.
Health Risks and Recommendations
Authorities and health experts caution that prolonged exposure to “very unhealthy” air can lead to respiratory distress, eye irritation, cardiovascular strain, and long-term health issues. Vulnerable groups, including children, seniors, and patients with asthma or chronic lung disease, are urged to remain indoors. Even healthy adults are advised to reduce physical activity outdoors and wear protective masks if venturing outside.
Causes of Dhaka’s Pollution
Analysts attribute Dhaka’s chronic air pollution to multiple factors:
Unplanned construction and rapid urban expansion, generating dust and particulate matter.
Vehicle emissions, particularly from older diesel engines producing dense black smoke.
Industrial output, including emissions from factories and power plants without adequate filtration systems.
Temporary rainfall or wind patterns can occasionally improve air quality, but the city lacks sustained pollution control measures, resulting in repeated spikes.
Call for Action
Environmental groups have urged government authorities to implement stricter emission controls, enforce industrial and vehicular regulations, and enhance urban planning. Experts stress that without long-term strategies, the city’s population of over 20 million faces escalating health hazards.
Dhaka’s persistent ranking as the world’s most polluted city underscores the urgent need for comprehensive environmental policies, public health safeguards, and citizen awareness initiatives to combat the growing air pollution crisis.