Dhaka has ranked second globally for the worst air quality, with an AQI score of 277 at 8:20 am on Friday (Dec 20). 

The air was classified as "very unhealthy," continuing a trend of poor air quality over the past few days, posing serious health risks.

The AQI index measures air pollution levels, and scores between 201 and 300 are considered "very unhealthy." Delhi, India, topped the list with an AQI of 531, followed by Dhaka, and Lahore, Pakistan, ranked third with 254.

The air quality in Dhaka is primarily impacted by pollutants like particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), NO2, CO, SO2, and ozone. 

The city struggles with pollution, especially during winter, with improvements seen only in the monsoon season. 

The World Health Organization (WHO) warns that air pollution causes about seven million deaths annually worldwide.

BDST: 1114 HRS, DEC 20, 2024
MN