Air pollution in Dhaka continues to rise, placing the mega city among the most polluted urban centers globally.
According to data from IQAir, as of 8:30 am on Sunday (April 19), Dhaka ranked fourth on the list of the world’s most polluted cities, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) score of 157—classified as “unhealthy.”
India’s Delhi topped the list with a hazardous AQI score of 408, posing serious health risks to residents. Another Indian city, Kolkata, ranked 18th with a score of 102, considered unhealthy for sensitive groups, while Mumbai stood at 23rd with a score of 91, indicating moderate air quality.
Among the top 10 most polluted cities, four are located in China. Chengdu ranked fifth with an AQI of 156, followed by Shenzhen in seventh place (152). Hangzhou and Guangzhou ranked ninth and tenth respectively, each recording an AQI of 124.
Elsewhere, Chiang Mai ranked second with a score of 191, while Kathmandu stood third with 178. Hong Kong ranked eighth with an AQI of 152. Air quality in these cities is also considered unhealthy.
An AQI score between 0 and 50 is regarded as “good,” while 51 to 100 is “moderate.” Scores from 101 to 150 are considered unhealthy for sensitive groups, and 151 to 200 are classified as “unhealthy.”
An AQI between 201 and 300 is labeled “very unhealthy,” prompting recommendations for children, the elderly, and people with illnesses to remain indoors, while others are advised to limit outdoor activities. Scores from 301 to 400 are considered “hazardous,” posing serious health risks to all residents.
