Air pollution is becoming a significant challenge worldwide. According to data released by international air quality technology company IQAir on Monday morning, Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, has emerged as the most polluted city in the world.
Dhaka’s Pollution Level and the Rankings of Other Cities
As per IQAir’s report, Dhaka’s Air Quality Index (AQI) score is 239, which is classified as ‘very unhealthy’ for residents. At the same time, Ulaanbaatar, the capital of Mongolia, shares the same AQI score, securing the second position.
Hanoi, Vietnam, ranks third with an AQI score of 220, while Karachi, Pakistan, is in fourth place with a score of 207. Kolkata, India, occupies the fifth position with a score of 192.
The Impact of Air Pollution: A Global Crisis
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 7 million people die each year due to air pollution. The effects of air pollution are linked to an increase in diseases such as strokes, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung cancer, and respiratory infections.
Causes of Air Pollution in Dhaka
The primary causes of Dhaka’s alarming air pollution levels include:
- Smoke from brick kilns
- Dust from construction activities
- Emissions from a large number of vehicles
- Waste from industrial factories
These factors contribute to the continuous degradation of Dhaka’s air quality, posing severe risks to the physical and mental health of its residents.
Steps to Address the Problem
A collective effort by the government and citizens is necessary to combat air pollution. Below are some effective recommendations:
- Ensuring the use of environmentally friendly fuels
- Implementing modern technology in brick kilns
- Raising public awareness and strictly enforcing pollution control laws
- Increasing urban greenery and afforestation
Air pollution in cities like Dhaka is a grave issue. If immediate steps are not taken, its impacts could become even more devastating. This is not just a challenge for Dhaka but a global crisis that demands swift and effective action to combat pollution.
Dhaka Tops Air Pollution Rankings- A Warning Signal for Citizens
