Dhaka Faces Air Quality Crisis as Winter Worsens Pollution Levels

Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, has once again topped global rankings for worst air quality, as the winter season exacerbates pollution levels across the city. According to data from the Air Quality Index (AQI) monitored on Wednesday morning, Dhaka recorded an AQI score of 298, placing it in the 'very unhealthy' category. This marks a significant deterioration from previous weeks, raising concerns among residents and environmental experts alike.

The AQI reading, which measures particulate matter (PM2.5) and other pollutants, indicates that the air in Dhaka poses immediate health risks, particularly for vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions. The Bangladesh Department of Environment has attributed the spike to a combination of factors, including vehicle emissions, industrial discharge, and the burning of bricks and waste. Winter conditions, characterized by lower wind speeds and temperature inversions, trap pollutants close to the ground, worsening the situation.

Local resident Mohammad Ali, a shopkeeper in the city's Motijheel area, expressed his frustration. 'I cannot breathe properly in the mornings. The fog mixes with smoke, and it feels like we are choking. We need urgent action from the authorities,' he said. Health clinics across Dhaka have reported a surge in patients suffering from asthma, bronchitis, and eye irritation, with doctors advising people to wear masks and limit outdoor activities.

The government of Bangladesh has implemented several measures to combat air pollution, including stricter emission standards for vehicles and a ban on the use of polythene bags. However, enforcement remains a challenge. The High Court recently directed the government to submit a report on steps taken to reduce air pollution in Dhaka, following a petition filed by environmental activists. The court has also ordered the closure of brick kilns operating without proper filters, but compliance has been slow.

Internationally, Dhaka's air quality crisis has drawn attention from global health organizations. The World Health Organization has listed Bangladesh among countries with the highest levels of PM2.5 exposure, linking it to premature deaths and reduced life expectancy. A 2023 study by the University of Chicago's Energy Policy Institute estimated that air pollution in Bangladesh reduces average life expectancy by nearly five years, with Dhaka residents being disproportionately affected.

In response to the crisis, the Dhaka City Corporation has launched a tree plantation drive, aiming to plant 100,000 saplings across the city by the end of the year. Additionally, the government is promoting the use of compressed natural gas (CNG) in public transport and has introduced electric rickshaws in some areas. Environmentalists, however, argue that these measures are insufficient without a comprehensive policy to address industrial emissions and urban planning.

'We need a multi-sectoral approach,' said Dr. Fatima Begum, an environmental scientist at Dhaka University. 'The focus should be on reducing dependency on fossil fuels, improving waste management, and creating green spaces. Public awareness is also crucial, as many people still burn trash in open areas.'

As winter deepens, Dhaka's residents brace for more polluted days ahead. The government has urged citizens to cooperate by reporting illegal burning and using public transport. Meanwhile, international agencies have offered technical support to monitor air quality and develop mitigation strategies. For now, the city's battle against smog continues, with no immediate relief in sight.