While the days are getting warmer, which should signal better air for Dhaka, it is unfortunate that our capital remains with the worst air quality in the world; on April 17, 2025, Dhaka's air quality reached the AQI score of 183, the worst globally that morning.
Indeed, it has long been the case that regardless of the month or time of the year, our cities’ air quality remains abysmal. This persistent and escalating air pollution crisis in Bangladesh continues to jeopardize public health and quality of life.
Air pollution in Bangladesh is primarily driven by emissions from motor vehicles, industrial activities, brick kilns, construction dust, and the burning of biomass. According to a World Bank study, air pollution is also responsible for 20% of premature deaths in Bangladesh.Hundreds of thousands of people die due to air pollution in Bangladesh every year, with this number looking to only increase as a result of our disregard for having clean air.
Despite some efforts through projects that aim to improve air quality monitoring and reduce emissions from key sectors, familiar challenges such as corruption, lack of public awareness, and insufficient funding continue to hinder effective implementation of these policies.
While the interim government has shown to recognize the magnitude of the problem, we need a paradigm shift when it comes to addressing this crisis. The prioritization of the enforcement of environmental regulations can no longer be an afterthought. We also need prudent investments in sustainable infrastructure and the promotion of public awareness campaigns to mitigate the adverse effects of air pollution.
Our people continue to suffer as a result of the very air they breathe. Only through collective and sustained efforts can we hope to breathe easier and safeguard the present and future health of this nation.
