Dhaka s Air Quality Shows Slight Improvement After Recent Rains

Dhaka's air quality has shown marginal improvement over the past week, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) dropping from 'unhealthy' to 'moderate' levels following scattered rainfall across the capital. The Department of Environment reported an average AQI reading of 85 on Tuesday, down from 156 recorded the previous week.

Environmental experts attribute the improvement to the recent pre-monsoon showers that helped settle dust particles and other pollutants. The city had been experiencing consistently poor air quality since March, with construction activities, vehicular emissions, and brick kiln operations contributing to the deterioration.

Residents have welcomed the change, with many reporting easier breathing and clearer visibility. 'I can finally open my windows without worrying about dust covering everything,' said Farhana Akter, a resident of Mirpur. 'I hope this improvement continues through the monsoon season.'

The Dhaka North City Corporation has intensified its road-sweeping operations and water-sprinkling activities to maintain the improved conditions. Officials have also increased monitoring of construction sites to ensure compliance with dust-control measures.

However, environmental activists warn that the improvement may be temporary. 'Without long-term sustainable solutions, we'll be back to hazardous air quality as soon as the rain stops,' cautioned Dr. Ahmad Kamruzzaman, an environmental science professor at Stamford University Bangladesh.

The government's ongoing initiatives include phasing out traditional brick kilns and promoting the use of eco-friendly construction materials. The Bangladesh Road Transport Authority has also stepped up efforts to remove old, polluting vehicles from the roads.

As the monsoon season approaches, meteorologists predict more frequent rainfall, which could further improve air quality in the coming weeks. However, experts emphasize that structural changes are necessary to ensure lasting improvements in Dhaka's air quality throughout the year.