Dhaka Ranked as the World’s Most Polluted City with an AQI of 251

Representational image [New Age]

Dhaka, Bangladesh – Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, has officially been ranked as the most polluted city in the world, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) score of 251 recorded at 8:21 AM on Tuesday morning. This score falls into the ‘very unhealthy’ category, signaling significant health risks for the city’s population.

The Impact of ‘Very Unhealthy’ Air Quality

An AQI score of 251 indicates that the air quality in Dhaka is at a hazardous level. The AQI is a widely used measurement that gauges the concentration of harmful pollutants in the air, such as particulate matter (PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), sulfur dioxide (SO₂), carbon monoxide (CO), and ozone (O₃). At this level, individuals can experience serious health issues, especially those with pre-existing conditions.

Health experts warn that long-term exposure to such poor air quality can lead to respiratory problems, heart disease, and other serious health concerns, particularly among children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions such as asthma.

Recent AQI Trends in Dhaka

This is not the first time Dhaka has experienced such high levels of pollution. On January 7, 2025, the city recorded an AQI score of 212, which also placed it among the most polluted cities globally. As air pollution continues to rise, residents and experts are growing increasingly concerned about the long-term health consequences.

Health Risks Associated with Poor Air Quality

The “very unhealthy” air quality in Dhaka poses serious risks to public health, including:

  • Respiratory Issues: Increased rates of asthma attacks, bronchitis, and other lung diseases.
  • Heart Disease: Elevated risks of heart attacks and other cardiovascular problems.
  • Vulnerable Populations: Children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions are particularly at risk.

Recommendations for Residents

Given the dangerous levels of pollution, residents of Dhaka are advised to:

  • Limit outdoor activities, especially during high-pollution hours.
  • Use air purifiers indoors to reduce exposure to harmful particles.
  • Wear protective masks, such as N95 respirators, when going outside.
  • Stay informed about the air quality by regularly checking updates from local monitoring stations.

Government and Community Actions

To address the rising air pollution, both the government and local communities must act quickly. Measures such as regulating industrial emissions, reducing vehicle exhaust, and promoting green spaces in urban areas could play a key role in improving air quality.