Air pollution peaks in Bangladesh as temperatures drop

Dhaka

As temperatures continue to fall across Bangladesh, the capital city Dhaka has seen its air quality reach alarming levels, exacerbating the suffering of millions of residents. Long plagued by air pollution, Dhaka ranked as the third most polluted city in the world on Thursday, with an air quality index (AQI) score of 206. Earlier in the week, the city's AQI reached a hazardous 241, making it the most polluted city globally on that day.

According to air quality standards, an AQI between 151 and 200 is considered "unhealthy," 201-300 is "very unhealthy," and 301-400 is classified as "hazardous," posing significant health risks to residents. The worsening air quality in Dhaka and surrounding areas has led the Bangladeshi interim government to advise the public to wear masks when outdoors and to limit exposure, particularly for sensitive individuals.

Experts attribute the rising pollution levels to a combination of factors, including construction, vehicle emissions, and household pollution, which are especially problematic during the winter months. Meteorological conditions, such as reduced wind speed and the arrival of dry northwesterly winds, are expected to worsen the situation further. These conditions not only trap pollutants but also contribute to a haze that worsens air quality.

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that air pollution kills around seven million people worldwide each year, primarily due to conditions like stroke, heart disease, lung cancer, and respiratory infections. Mohammad Mushtuq Husain, a former adviser to Bangladesh's Institute of Epidemiology, emphasized the growing health risks for day laborers and other vulnerable groups exposed to high levels of PM2.5 particulate matter, which can lead to respiratory issues, heart disease, and lung cancer.

In response to the crisis, the government of Bangladesh has developed a National Air Quality Management Action Plan, which aims to address the sources of pollution, improve air monitoring, and enforce stricter regulations. The plan is part of Bangladesh's broader efforts to achieve sustainable environmental goals and reduce pollution levels in both rural and urban areas.

Despite these efforts, hospitals and clinics are seeing a significant increase in respiratory-related cases, highlighting the urgent need for both immediate and long-term action to combat the health risks associated with the country's air pollution.