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AQI reports, Dhaka Ranks 4th in List of Cities with Worst Air Quality
According to the latest air quality index report (AQI), Dhaka, the capital city of Bangladesh, secured the 4th position on the global list of cities with the most severe air pollution.
With an Air Quality Index (AQI) score of 162 recorded at 9:00 am this morning, Dhaka joined the unfortunate ranks of cities battling hazardous air conditions. Topping the list were Lahore in Pakistan and Delhi in India, with both cities scoring an AQI of 190. Shenyang in China followed closely with an AQI of 163.
The AQI scale categorizes air quality levels, and an AQI score between 101 and 150 is considered “unhealthy for sensitive groups,” while a score of 151 to 200 falls under the “unhealthy” category. Moving up the scale, an AQI score of 201 to 300 is classified as “very unhealthy,” while a reading above 301 is deemed “hazardous,” posing severe health risks to residents.
The air quality index in Bangladesh is based on the measurement of five criteria pollutants, namely particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and ozone (O3). These pollutants are known to contribute significantly to air pollution and its adverse effects on public health.
Read More: Morning Rainfall brings Moderate Air Quality in Dhaka
Dhaka has been grappling with air pollution issues for a considerable time, and it continues to be a pressing concern. Air pollution consistently ranks as one of the leading risk factors for premature death and disability worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that air pollution is responsible for approximately seven million deaths annually, mainly attributed to increased mortality rates from stroke, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung cancer, and acute respiratory infections.
Rain or thundershowers are likely in various parts of the country as the day temperature may further decrease amidst a severe heat wave in Pabna, Jashore, Chuadanga, and Bagerhat districts, according to a meteorological release today.
The release predicts rain or thundershowers accompanied by temporary gusty/squally winds in a few places across the Sylhet division and at one or two places in Rangpur, Dhaka, Mymensingh, Barishal, and Chattogram divisions, with hails possible at isolated locations within the next 24 hours starting from 9 am today.
Mild to moderate heat waves are sweeping over Dhaka, Rajshahi, Rangpur, Mymensingh, and Barishal divisions, as well as the remaining parts of Khulna division, and the districts of Moulvibazar and Chandpur, as per the release.
The weather is expected to remain mainly dry with temporary partly cloudy skies elsewhere across the country.
Day and night temperatures are likely to remain nearly unchanged nationwide.
The sun sets at 6:29 pm today and rises at 5:21 am tomorrow in the capital.
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina urged mill and factory owners to prioritize the welfare of laborers by reducing their luxuries. Addressing a discussion at the Bangabandhu International Conference Centre, she emphasized that laborers enable owners to lead lavish lives through their hard work.
She cautioned laborers against actions that could harm the factories providing them with employment opportunities. Sheikh Hasina noted that some individuals incite workers to protest unnecessarily, which ultimately damages both the workers’ interests and the country’s economy.
Highlighting the symbiotic relationship between owners and laborers, she stressed the need for increased industrial production for Bangladesh’s overall development. Sheikh Hasina encouraged both parties to approach her directly to resolve any issues, emphasizing her commitment to addressing their concerns.
She distributed financial assistance to labor families and attended a cultural program, accompanied by various dignitaries including State Minister for Labour and Employment, Md Nazrul Islam Chowdhury, and representatives from international organizations.
Sheikh Hasina proudly described her government as pro-labor, citing initiatives such as wage increases, workplace safety measures, childcare facilities, and maternity leave provisions. She highlighted the steady increase in workers’ salaries under her government’s tenure, affirming her party’s dedication to labor welfare.
Asserting Bangladesh’s commitment to international labor standards, she warned against any exploitation of workers and pledged to hold accountable those responsible for withholding fair wages.
The Prime Minister also outlined government efforts to boost education and employment opportunities, including free textbooks and vocational training programs. She mentioned the Karmasangsthan Bank, established to provide loans to youth entrepreneurs without collateral.
In summary, Sheikh Hasina’s government prioritizes labor welfare, fosters a conducive environment for economic growth, and remains vigilant against any exploitation of workers.
The Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) has issued a cautionary notice indicating that the current heatwave is anticipated to endure for 72 consecutive hours commencing Thursday morning.
The BMD attributes the prolonged discomfort to heightened moisture incursion, amplifying the oppressive conditions.
This advisory comes subsequent to prior warnings released on April 19th and April 22nd, underscoring the BMD’s ongoing vigilance and management of the adverse weather dynamics impacting the area.
