Dhaka, the bustling capital of Bangladesh, is grappling with a worsening air pollution problem that endangers both public health and economic vitalities.

Over the past week, Dhaka's Air Quality Index (AQI) has consistently ranked among the highest globally, indicating severe air pollution levels.

On December 11 at 9:10 am, Dhaka recorded an AQI of 249, placing it as the third most polluted city in the world.

Tackling air pollution: Environment Adviser launches National Air Quality Management Action Plan

More worrying is that Dhaka's air quality deteriorates significantly during winter, primarily due to increased emissions from brick kilns, construction activities and vehicular pollution.

According to a study by the Centre for Atmospheric Pollution Studies (CAPS) at Stamford University Bangladesh, the concentration of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) surges during this season, often exceeding the WHO's safe limit by several folds.

The colder temperature and lower wind speeds cause pollutants to linger in the atmosphere, creating thick smog that engulfs the city.

Besides, rural practices like burning biomass for heating exacerbate the situation by adding to the airborne pollutants.

Dhaka’s air pollution reaches alarming level: Research

This seasonal decline in air quality not only hampers visibility but also poses severe health risks, particularly for those with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions.

Recent studies, including one published in GSC Advanced Research and Reviews, also highlights the city’s deteriorating air quality and its profound consequences.

Another research article, authored by Faisal Ahmed, Abu Zaher Mohammad Bayazid, Md Monerul Islam, Md Ziaur Rahaman, and Md Fahim Al Muntasir, calls for urgent and comprehensive interventions to combat this crisis.

A City Suffocated by Pollution

Levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) are alarmingly high, averaging between 165 and 175 μg/m³ during winter months—over ten times the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recommended limit of 15 μg/m³. Even during the monsoon season, when pollution levels typically decrease, the air remains hazardous.

Causes

Vehicular Emissions: Most vehicles in Bangladesh are outdated, poorly maintained and lack emission controls.

Construction and Industrial Activities: Brick kilns, integral to local construction, and large-scale infrastructure projects generate vast amounts of particulate matter.

Power Generation: Reliance on coal, liquid fuel and furnace oil in 20% of the country’s power plants significantly contributes to greenhouse gas emissions.

Cross-Border Pollution: Trans-boundary pollutants from coal-burning activities in neighbouring India and Nepal account for an estimated 40% of Bangladesh’s air pollution.

Health Impacts

Dhaka’s residents face a growing health emergency as air pollution exacerbates respiratory and other illnesses.

A related study by Trishul Basak Dibya, Amrin Yeasin Proma, and Syed Masudur Rahman Dewan highlights widespread respiratory disorders, including chronic bronchitis and lower respiratory tract infections. Occupational exposure to polluted outdoor air has heightened risks for many.

According to the WHO, air pollution in Dhaka contributes to an estimated 15,000 premature deaths annually and millions of cases of respiratory ailments.

In 2021, air pollution was the leading cause of death in Bangladesh, with 236,000 fatalities attributed to it.

Economic Fallout

The economic toll of air pollution in Dhaka is staggering. Annual losses amount to $192 million, driven by healthcare costs and reduced productivity.

A World Bank report estimated that air pollution’s impact on Bangladesh’s economy in 2019 ranged from $11.5 billion to $13 billion, equivalent to 3.9% to 4.4% of the nation’s GDP. Persistent environmental degradation threatens the country’s long-term development goals.

Proposed Solutions and Interventions

The study authors propose a multifaceted approach to address Dhaka’s air pollution crisis:

Transportation Reforms: Introducing affordable hybrid vehicles and mandating computerised emission testing for all vehicles.

Energy Transition: Promoting renewable energy sources, including solar and wind, to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

Industrial Regulations: Implementing modern brick kiln technologies and enforcing strict oversight of construction activities.

Urban Planning: Developing green spaces, pedestrian-friendly zones, and improved waste management systems to curb emissions.

Regional Cooperation: Collaborating with neighbouring countries to address transboundary pollution challenges.

National Air Quality Management Action Plan

On November 5, Environment Adviser yeda Rizwana Hasan launched the National Air Quality Management Action Plan.

Speaking at the event held at the Department of Environment in Dhaka, Rizwana Hasan outlined strategic actions to tackle pollution sources, improve air monitoring, and enhance enforcement mechanisms.

The action plan includes:

·         Implementing stringent regulations and promoting cleaner technologies in industries, transportation, and urban development.

·         Integrating air quality management into national policies and adopting advanced monitoring technologies.

·         Increasing public awareness about the health impacts of pollution.

Rizwana Hasan stressed the need for collaboration among government agencies, development partners, civil society, and the private sector to ensure effective execution of the plan.

She also inaugurated new software to automate the environmental clearance process through an online platform, streamlining issuance and renewal procedures.

Immediate Action

While the government has made strides in addressing air quality, the research stresses the urgency for further action. To protect public health and secure a sustainable future, we must enforce strict air quality regulations and foster environmentally friendly urban development, the authors urge.

Public awareness campaigns, stricter enforcement of existing laws, and investments in green technology are critical to reversing the trend.

Without immediate and effective interventions, Dhaka’s public health and economy will continue to suffer. As one of the fastest-growing cities globally, Dhaka must prioritise environmental resilience to ensure a livable future for its residents.