At 9:07 AM on Saturday, Dhaka recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 189, placing it fifth among the world's most polluted cities. Delhi, India, topped the list with an AQI of 216, followed by Phnom Penh, Cambodia (215), Yangon, Myanmar (211), and Kampala, Uganda (205). Dhaka's AQI level of 189 falls into the "unhealthy" category, posing risks to residents, especially vulnerable groups.
Meanwhile, among the cleanest cities, Bogotá, Colombia, recorded the lowest AQI at 14 at 9:11 AM. Sydney, Australia, followed with an AQI of 14, while Chicago, USA (16), Vancouver, Canada (17), Minneapolis, USA (17), Helsinki, Finland (18), and Taipei, Taiwan (19) also reported relatively clean air.
The Air Quality Index (AQI) measures air pollution levels based on pollutants such as particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), ozone, carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide. An AQI above 150 is considered unhealthy, particularly for sensitive groups, while readings above 200 are deemed very unhealthy for all.
To reduce exposure to poor air quality, individuals can wear masks outdoors, use air purifiers indoors, and limit outdoor activities during high pollution periods. Authorities can implement stricter emission controls, promote green energy, and enhance urban greenery to improve air quality over time.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
