Summary:
- Dhaka’s Department of Environment (DoE) has mandated wearing face masks outdoors as the city’s AQI exceeds 250, reaching “very unhealthy” levels.
- Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and those with health issues, are advised to stay indoors unless absolutely necessary.
- Air pollution in Dhaka worsens during the dry season due to construction dust, vehicle emissions, and industrial activities.
- Authorities emphasize the need for systemic measures to combat air pollution alongside individual precautions like wearing masks.
Dhaka, January 13, 2025 — The Department of Environment (DoE) has issued a critical advisory urging residents of Dhaka and its surrounding areas to wear face masks when outdoors as the city’s air quality index (AQI) has reached a “very unhealthy” level. According to a press release from the DoE, the AQI soared past 250 at 10:00 AM today, signaling severe health risks for all individuals.
The advisory comes as air pollution in Dhaka continues to deteriorate during the dry season, with particulate matter (PM2.5) concentrations significantly exceeding safe limits. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions, have been strongly advised to avoid outdoor activities unless absolutely necessary. The DoE emphasized that the AQI fluctuates hourly, often ranging between “unhealthy” and “hazardous” categories during this period.
The capital city of Bangladesh has long struggled with air pollution, exacerbated by factors such as construction dust, vehicular emissions, brick kilns, and industrial activities. Dhaka currently ranks among the most polluted cities globally. Earlier today, it was reported as the second most polluted city worldwide, with an AQI score of 252. This alarming figure places it in the “very unhealthy” category, posing serious health risks to residents.
Air pollution in Dhaka is primarily driven by fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which can penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream, causing respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. According to a World Bank report, exposure to such high levels of air pollution increases the risk of respiratory infections, asthma, and other chronic illnesses. Alarmingly, air pollution has become one of the leading causes of premature deaths in Bangladesh, contributing to over 236,000 fatalities annually.
The health risks associated with Dhaka’s poor air quality are not limited to physical ailments. Studies have shown that prolonged exposure to high levels of PM2.5 can also affect mental health and cognitive development in children. Economically, the impacts are severe as well; air pollution hampers productivity and imposes a significant burden on Bangladesh’s GDP.
Efforts to combat air pollution have been ongoing but remain insufficient given the scale of the problem. The National Air Quality Management Plan (2024–2030) aims to reduce PM2.5 levels by 15 µg/m³ nationwide by 2030 and improve the number of days with “good” or “moderate” air quality. However, enforcement challenges and rapid urbanization continue to hinder progress.
The DoE’s latest advisory underscores the urgent need for immediate action from both policymakers and residents. While wearing masks offers some protection against airborne particles, experts stress that systemic measures—such as stricter regulations on emissions and investment in clean energy—are essential to address this public health crisis.
As Dhaka grapples with hazardous air quality this winter season, residents are reminded to prioritize their health by limiting outdoor exposure and adhering to safety recommendations.
Source: TBS News
