The Swiss company IQAir on Tuesday published a report that says Bangladesh, Pakistan and India had the worst air quality in the world in 2023 with an annual average concentration of PM2.5 – particulate matter with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometres and extremely harmful to health. In Bangladesh, this was 15 times over the levels considered safe by the World Health Organization. An average of 79.9 micrograms per cubic meter (μg/m3) was recorded in Bangladesh last year, whereas the WHO recommends a maximum of five μg/m3. Pakistan, with 73.7 µg/m3 per year, and India, with 54.4 µg/m3 per year, came in at second and third, respectively, in the list. All three countries are from South Asia, where emissions from brick factories, burning stubble or using solid fuels to cook and keep warm in winter contribute significantly towards pollution.

This is alarming news for us who are living in Dhaka, the vibrant capital city of Bangladesh as we are facing a grave and pervasive threat: air pollution. As one of the most densely populated cities in the world, Dhaka is grappling with increasingly poor air quality, posing significant risks to public health, the environment, and economic development. The complex interplay of factors such as rapid urbanization, industrial growth, vehicular emissions, and inadequate infrastructure has contributed to this alarming crisis. This article delves into the causes, consequences, and potential solutions to the pressing issue of air pollution in Dhaka. Several study papers say the sources of air pollution in Dhaka are manifold and diverse, with each contributing to the city's toxic air cocktail. Vehicular emissions stand out as a major contributor, as the city's streets are inundated with an ever-growing fleet of cars, buses, trucks, and rickshaws, many of which are old and poorly maintained. The combustion of fossil fuels releases harmful pollutants such as nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulfur dioxide (SO2), carbon monoxide (CO), and particulate matter (PM), which not only degrade air quality but also exacerbate respiratory ailments and cardiovascular diseases among the city's residents.

Industrial activities also play a significant role in exacerbating air pollution in Dhaka. The city's rapid industrialization has led to the proliferation of factories and manufacturing units, many of which operate without proper emission control measures. Chemical pollutants and hazardous waste from industries contaminate the air, soil, and water, posing serious health risks to nearby communities and ecosystems. Additionally, the burning of biomass for cooking and heating purposes, especially in the city's slums and informal settlements, further adds to the pollution burden, releasing harmful pollutants and exacerbating indoor air quality issues. The consequences of air pollution in Dhaka are far-reaching and profound, affecting the health, well-being, and livelihoods of millions of people. Respiratory diseases such as asthma, bronchitis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) have become increasingly prevalent, particularly among vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions. Moreover, long-term exposure to air pollution is associated with an increased risk of lung cancer, heart disease, stroke, and other life-threatening ailments, imposing a heavy burden on the city's healthcare system and economy.

Beyond its health impacts, air pollution also takes a toll on the environment and quality of life in Dhaka. Smog and haze shroud the city skyline, obscuring visibility and diminishing the aesthetic appeal of urban spaces. Pollutants deposited on land and water bodies contaminate ecosystems, disrupt biodiversity, and degrade natural resources, further undermining the city's resilience and sustainability. Additionally, air pollution poses economic challenges, as productivity losses due to illness and absenteeism, healthcare expenditures, and environmental degradation impose substantial costs on individuals, businesses, and society as a whole. Addressing the scourge of air pollution in Dhaka requires a multifaceted and concerted approach that tackles its root causes and mitigates its harmful effects. First and foremost, stringent regulatory measures must be enforced to curb emissions from vehicles, industries, and other sources of pollution. This includes implementing vehicle emission standards, promoting cleaner fuels, enforcing emissions testing and inspection programs, and imposing penalties on violators. Furthermore, investments in public transportation, cycling infrastructure, and pedestrian-friendly urban design can reduce reliance on private vehicles and promote sustainable mobility options.

In parallel, efforts to improve energy efficiency and transition to renewable energy sources can help reduce emissions from industrial activities and household sources. This includes promoting energy-efficient technologies, incentivizing the adoption of clean energy solutions, and phasing out the use of coal and other polluting fuels. Initiatives to promote green spaces, tree planting, and urban greening can help mitigate the impacts of air pollution by absorbing pollutants, enhancing air quality, and providing recreational opportunities for residents. Public awareness and community engagement are also essential components of any comprehensive strategy to combat air pollution in Dhaka. Educating the public about the health risks of air pollution, promoting sustainable behaviours, and empowering communities to advocate for clean air policies can mobilize collective action and foster a culture of environmental stewardship. Furthermore, fostering partnerships between government agencies, civil society organizations, academia, and the private sector can leverage expertise, resources, and innovative solutions to address the complex challenges posed by air pollution.Last but not the least. The pervasive threat of air pollution in Dhaka demands urgent and decisive action to safeguard public health, protect the environment, and promote sustainable development. By addressing the root causes of pollution, enforcing regulations, promoting clean technologies, and fostering community engagement, we can create a cleaner, healthier, and more liveable city for current and future generations. The time to act is now, lest we suffocate under the choking grip of pollution.