Dhaka's toxic air

The city has long been struggling with severe air pollution with no improvement in sight. In winter, the air quality worsens to dangerous levels. Normally, warm air rises and helps carry pollutants away into the atmosphere. However, during winter, cold air gets trapped near the surface, with warmer air above it, creating an "inversion layer." This layer acts like a lid, holding pollutants from vehicles, factories, construction sites, and brick kilns close to the ground. The result is intensified health risks for residents as pollution levels thicken at breathing height.

Dhaka is consistently ranked among the most polluted cities in the world. Daily exposure to such high levels of particulate matter can lead to chronic respiratory, cardiovascular, and other diseases. Children, the elderly, and people with preexisting conditions are especially vulnerable.

To address this crisis, it is crucial to shut down illegal brick kilns, expand public transportation, and ensure government oversight of construction projects to guarantee proper waste management. Stricter emission standards must also be enforced, alongside other stringent measures. Public awareness campaigns are essential to educate people about the health risks associated with air pollution.

The air pollution crisis in Dhaka is not just an environmental issue, but a public health emergency. We must act swiftly to secure a healthier future for our citizens-before it is too late.

Srabanti Dey (Orthy)

Department of Accounting & Finance

North South University, Dhaka

[email protected]