Dhaka Tops Global Air Pollution List Despite Rain

Despite two consecutive days of rainfall, Dhaka’s air quality remained dangerously poor on Tuesday, raising concerns among health experts and residents.

According to Switzerland-based air monitoring platform IQAir, Dhaka recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) score of 198 at 8:30 am, placing the capital at the top of the list of the world’s most polluted cities. An AQI score between 151 and 200 is considered “unhealthy,” while anything above 200 is classified as “very unhealthy.”

The capital received 23 millimeters of rainfall between 12 pm and 3 pm on Monday, following 32 millimeters of rain on Sunday. Normally, rainfall helps reduce airborne pollutants and improves Dhaka’s air quality. However, pollution levels remained high this time.

India’s capital New Delhi ranked second with an AQI score of 165, while Wuhan in China ranked third at 158.

Worst-Affected Areas in Dhaka

Several areas of Dhaka recorded extremely poor air quality levels on Tuesday morning.

• Agargaon recorded the highest AQI score in the city at 273.
• Abdullahbagh followed with a score of 241.
• Becharam Deuri recorded an AQI score of 231.

All three locations fell into the “very unhealthy” category.

Usually, Dhaka’s air quality starts improving after April as seasonal rainfall increases. However, nearly halfway through May, pollution levels remain consistently high.

Health Advice for Residents

IQAir has advised residents to take precautions due to the unhealthy air conditions.

People are encouraged to:

• Wear masks when going outdoors
• Avoid outdoor exercise and strenuous activities
• Keep windows closed as much as possible to reduce indoor exposure to polluted air

Health experts warn that prolonged exposure to polluted air can increase the risk of respiratory problems, especially for children, older adults, and people with existing health conditions.