Dhaka's air quality has been rated as 'unhealthy' as the city ranks fourth among 124 global cities for air pollution. 

According to the IQ Air quality index, Dhaka recorded a score of 157 at 9:15 AM local time on Saturday, March 29.

The Switzerland-based organization IQ Air monitors air quality globally, providing real-time data on pollution levels. 

A score of 157 falls into the 'unhealthy' category, indicating potential health risks for the general population, especially for sensitive groups such as children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions.

IQ Air classifies air quality into different categories: scores between 0 and 50 are considered 'good,' 51 to 100 is deemed 'moderate,' and 101 to 150 is labeled 'unhealthy for sensitive groups.' Scores between 151 and 200 are considered 'unhealthy,' while scores ranging from 201 to 300 are 'very unhealthy,' and anything above 301 is classified as 'risky.'

At the time of reporting, Kathmandu, Nepal, topped the list with a score of 189, followed by Chiang Mai, Thailand, with 185. Dhaka held the fourth position with a score of 157.

The primary source of air pollution in Dhaka is the high concentration of particulate matter, or PM 2.5, which was recorded at approximately 13 times higher than the recommended limits set by the World Health Organization (WHO) on Saturday morning.

BDST: 1212 HRS, MAR 29, 2025
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