Dhaka Faces Severe Air Pollution Crisis as Global Rankings Drop

• Dhaka has recorded a hazardous Air Quality Index (AQI) of 179, ranking it the second most polluted city globally behind New Delhi.
• High-density construction, vehicular emissions, and seasonal dry weather are identified as the primary drivers of the crisis.
• Health experts warn that extreme PM2.5 levels pose severe risks to vulnerable groups, including children and those with respiratory conditions.

Drivers of Urban Pollution

• Construction Dust: Unregulated digging and infrastructure projects fail to use containment measures or water-spraying, allowing dust to permeate the air.
• Vehicular Exhaust: Incomplete engine combustion and heavy traffic congestion release toxic pollutants across densely populated areas.
• Industrial & Waste Emissions: Brick kilns operating on the city periphery and the widespread open burning of solid waste and plastics exacerbate atmospheric contamination.

Health Impacts

• Respiratory Risks: Fine particles like PM2.5 penetrate deep into lung tissue, increasing instances of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
• Long-term Dangers: Prolonged exposure is linked to increased risks of heart disease and stroke, particularly among the elderly and pregnant women.

Expert Recommendations

• Strict Enforcement: Authorities must mandate dust containment at construction sites and deploy mobile courts to penalize high-emission vehicles and illegal waste burning.
• Systemic Reform: Effective mitigation requires coordinated monitoring between government departments, the expansion of green belts, and the modernization of urban transport.
• Individual Precautions: Residents are advised to wear N95 or KN95 masks outdoors and keep windows closed during peak pollution hours, especially in the early mornings and evenings.