By S. M. Sadat
Dhaka, December 10, 2024 – The air quality in Bangladesh’s capital has deteriorated to alarming levels, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching a staggering 394 today. This level of pollution, categorized as “hazardous,” poses severe health risks to the city’s 22 million residents and has been equated to smoking 22 cigarettes daily, according to health experts.
The AQI measures the concentration of harmful pollutants in the air, such as fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which can penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream, causing respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), prolonged exposure to such high levels of air pollution can lead to chronic illnesses and premature deaths.
Hospitals across Dhaka have reported a sharp increase in patients with respiratory complaints, asthma, and other pollution-related conditions. Vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health issues, are particularly at risk.
“Breathing air in Dhaka today is equivalent to smoking a pack of cigarettes every two days,” said Dr. Nazmul Hossain, a pulmonologist at a leading hospital.
“Long-term exposure to this level of pollution can have devastating effects on public health, including lung cancer and heart disease.”
Experts attribute Dhaka’s poor air quality to a combination of factors, including industrial emissions, vehicular exhaust, construction dust, and the burning of biomass. The situation worsens during winter, as cooler temperatures and stagnant air trap pollutants closer to the ground, creating deadly smog.
Despite efforts by the government to combat air pollution, including restrictions on brick kilns and vehicular emissions, enforcement remains weak, and progress has been slow.
Environmentalists and public health advocates are urging immediate action to address this crisis. Measures such as stricter emissions standards, expanded public transportation, and the promotion of renewable energy sources are seen as critical steps. Public awareness campaigns to reduce activities that contribute to air pollution, such as burning waste, are also essential.
In the meantime, experts recommend that residents take precautions to protect themselves, including:
• Staying indoors as much as possible.
• Using air purifiers and wearing high-quality masks (such as N95 or equivalent) when outdoors.
• Keeping windows closed to prevent polluted air from entering homes.
Dhaka’s worsening air quality is a stark reminder of the urgent need for global cooperation on climate change and pollution control. Without swift action, the city’s air pollution crisis will continue to jeopardize the health and livelihoods of millions.
The time for action is now—both locally and globally—to ensure cleaner air and a healthier future for all.
Biography:
Sharif Mohammad Sadat is a medical student from Bangladesh currently serving as the Regional Director for Asia Pacific at the International Federation of Medical Students’ Associations (IFMSA), a member of the WHO Youth Council. A passionate global health advocate, Sadat is dedicated to promoting sustainable health practices and ensuring health for all. His initiatives focus on making healthcare accessible and equitable, particularly for marginalized communities. He has a strong interest in One Health, emphasizing the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. His efforts aim to merge social growth with medical knowledge, contributing to a healthier and more equitable society.