Protecting citizens from air pollution hazards

As winter is approaching, Dhaka has been experiencinga steady increase in air pollution. According to the Air Quality Index (AQI), the densely-populated capital's air often tops the list of world cities with the worst air quality. Nowadays, it stays above 150 in the index, which is 'unhealthy'. Those who are directly exposed to such polluted air are the worst victims of this situation.

A number of people, who are suffering from allergies and asthma, are facing difficulty breathing, while several others are suffering from sore throat, cold, flu, bronchitis and chest pain and as such they are visiting hospitals. Spraying water on the streets can be a solution. However, this is not done regularly by the city corporation authorities. In the prevailing condition, people should be self-conscious about pollution, and take preventive measures such as wearing of facemasks. Dhaka has long been grappling with air pollution. Its air quality usually turns very unhealthy during winter. So, the authorities concerned should act before it is too late.

Rafid Alam,

Dhaka,

[email protected]