Dhaka, Bangladesh's overcrowded capital, has ranked fifth on the list of cities with the worst air quality, recording an AQI score of 248 at 9 am on Wednesday. 

The air quality was classified as "very unhealthy" according to the Air Quality Index (AQI), which has been poor in the city for several days.

The AQI, which measures air pollution levels, indicates serious health risks when scores exceed 201. Dhaka's air quality is heavily impacted by pollutants like particulate matter, NO2, CO, SO2, and ozone. 

In comparison, Chengdu, China (AQI 536), Delhi, India (AQI 413), and Wuhan, China (AQI 400) topped the list.

Air pollution in Dhaka typically worsens in the winter months, while the monsoon offers some relief. 

The World Health Organization (WHO) warns that air pollution is a leading cause of death globally, killing an estimated seven million people annually.

BDST: 1104 HRS, JAN 29, 2025
MN