Dhaka among the world’s most polluted cities

Air quality in Dhaka seems to be getting worse with every passing day. Some newspapers have reported based on recent research that the Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM) is around 200 microgram in every square foot of Dhaka daily. SPM contains dust, mist, smoke and fumes. The level of SPM in Dhaka is double the amount mentioned as 'acceptable' in the national standard. Also, it is 10 times more than the limit followed by the World Health Organisation (WHO).

Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission (BAEC) has found that around 100 kilogramme of lead, 3,500 kg of SPM, 1,500 of Sulphur dioxide, 14 tonnes of Hydrogen Chloride and 60 tonnes of carbon monoxide are emitted into Dhaka's air in 24 hours. These dangerous pollutants are directly emitted by vehicles, factories, brick kilns etc. Also, hospital waste and human faeces under the open skies pollute the air indirectly.

Some healthcare professionals have observed that air pollution in Dhaka is one of the prime causes behind cardiovascular diseases, asthma, various forms of cancer, including lung cancer and more.

In March of this year, Dhaka scored 218 in the US Air Quality Index (AQI). The air was classified as "very unhealthy." Dhaka was only second to Delhi of India that had a score of 269.

The air pollution in Dhaka is affecting not just the senior citizens, but also the babies. This is a serious matter of concern that needs immediate intervention from the government.

Naila Hossain,

Uttara, Dhaka