Dhaka’s air quality remained in the “moderate” category on Tuesday morning, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) score of 97 recorded at 9am. The capital ranked 12th among cities worldwide with the worst air quality.

According to IQAir data, India’s Kolkata, Uzbekistan’s Tashkent, and Bahrain’s Manama topped the list with AQI scores of 154, 153, and 152, respectively.

An AQI reading between 50 and 100 is considered “moderate,” indicating acceptable air quality, though sensitive individuals are advised to limit prolonged outdoor activity. Readings between 101–150 are “unhealthy for sensitive groups,” 151–200 are “unhealthy,” 201–300 are “very unhealthy,” and anything above 301 is deemed “hazardous.”

The AQI measures air pollution levels based on five key pollutants — PM10, PM2.5, NO₂, CO, SO₂, and ozone.

Dhaka has long struggled with air pollution, particularly during the dry winter months, while air quality typically improves during the monsoon season.

Globally, air pollution remains a severe health threat. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that around seven million people die each year due to illnesses linked to polluted air, including stroke, heart disease, lung cancer, and respiratory infections.

MN/