Dhaka Ranks Fourth in Global Air Quality Index
Dhaka, the densely populated capital of Bangladesh, has recently been ranked fourth among cities with the worst air quality. On November 9, 2025, at 9:30 am, the city recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) score of 226. This level is classified as ‘very unhealthy,’ signaling a significant threat to public health.
The AQI is a tool used to communicate the quality of air in a specific area and its potential impact on human health. When the AQI value for particle pollution falls between 50 and 100, the air is considered ‘moderate.’ Sensitive individuals are advised to limit prolonged outdoor activity during this period. If the AQI ranges from 101 to 150, it is labeled ‘unhealthy for sensitive groups.’ An AQI between 150 and 200 is considered ‘unhealthy,’ while values from 201 to 300 are categorized as ‘very unhealthy.’ Any reading above 300 is deemed ‘hazardous,’ posing serious health risks to residents.
This morning’s AQI reading in Dhaka marks a significant deterioration from previous days when the city experienced ‘unhealthy for sensitive groups’ or ‘unhealthy’ conditions. The sudden shift to ‘very unhealthy’ highlights the urgent need for immediate action to mitigate the impact of air pollution.
India’s Delhi, Kolkata, and China’s Beijing have taken the top three positions on the list, with AQI scores of 722, 216, and 205, respectively. These figures underscore the severity of air pollution in these regions and the challenges they face in maintaining healthy air quality.
Understanding Air Pollution and Its Health Impacts
Air pollution remains a major global health concern. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), it is responsible for approximately seven million deaths annually. These fatalities are often linked to increased mortality rates from stroke, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer, and acute respiratory infections.
The AQI in Bangladesh is calculated based on five key pollutants: particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and ozone. These pollutants contribute to the overall degradation of air quality and pose serious health risks to the population.
Dhaka has long struggled with air pollution, particularly during the winter months when air quality tends to worsen. However, the situation improves significantly during the monsoon season due to increased rainfall and reduced emissions.
Protective Measures Against Poor Air Quality
Given the current state of air quality in Dhaka, it is crucial for residents to take necessary precautions to protect their health. Here are five effective ways to minimize exposure to poor air quality:
- Limit outdoor activities: Especially during peak pollution hours, avoid prolonged physical exertion outdoors.
- Use air purifiers: Invest in high-quality air purifiers for homes and offices to filter out harmful particles.
- Wear masks: Use N95 or similar masks when going outside to reduce inhalation of pollutants.
- Monitor AQI levels: Stay updated with real-time AQI data to make informed decisions about daily activities.
- Support policy changes: Advocate for stricter environmental regulations and sustainable urban planning to address the root causes of air pollution.
As the issue of air pollution continues to grow, it is essential for governments, communities, and individuals to work together to implement long-term solutions that ensure cleaner air for future generations.