The government on Tuesday advised sensitive individuals to avoid going outside unless it is absolutely necessary, as the city's air quality has deteriorated from 'unhealthy' to 'hazardous'.
The air quality in Dhaka and its surrounding areas has deteriorated to an 'unhealthy' and sometimes 'hazardous' level (AQI > 250), said the Ministry of Environment.
"In this situation, people are advised to wear masks when outdoors, while sensitive individuals are requested to avoid going outside unless absolutely necessary," it cautioned.
The air quality data is regularly updated on the Department of Environment's website for public information. Citizens are urged to monitor the information and take necessary precautions accordingly.
Additionally, all are requested to contribute to air pollution control from their respective positions.
Brick kiln and factory owners, as well as general public, are advised to adopt necessary measures.
The ministry also asked all to refrain from burning solid waste, install proper enclosures and use covers at construction sites, keep construction materials under cover, and ensure trucks or lorries transporting construction materials are fully covered.
It also advised to spray water around construction areas at least twice a day, and avoid operating old and smoke-emitting vehicles on roads. Controlling air pollution is a time-consuming process, and the government urges all stakeholders to collaborate in this effort.
A recent study on the serious air pollution in Dhaka was conducted by Young's Organization of Urban Research (YOUR), Western Illinois University, and several other institutions. Its findings were published in October.
The study said the air pollution or poor quality of air profoundly impacts both public health and national economy.
According to the World Bank research, losses from air pollution in 2019 ranged from US$11.5 billion to $13 billion, or 3.9 per cent to 4.4 per cent of Bangladesh's GDP.
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