Air pollution is on the rise in many cities around the world, and for a long time, Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, has remained among the most affected. In recent days, Dhaka has consistently ranked near the top of the world’s most polluted cities.

On Monday morning (April 28), the air quality in Dhaka remained unhealthy for sensitive groups. According to data from the international air quality monitoring organization IQAir, at around 7:30 AM, Dhaka recorded an AQI (Air Quality Index) score of 120, placing it seventh among the world's most polluted cities.

At the same time, Lahore in Pakistan topped the list with an AQI score of 223. Delhi in India ranked second with a score of 181, followed by Kuwait City (166), Dakar in Senegal (153), and Hanoi in Vietnam (147).

For context, an AQI score between 0–50 is considered good, 51–100 is moderate, and 101–150 is classified as unhealthy for sensitive groups. Scores between 151–200 are labeled unhealthy for the general population. When AQI ranges between 201–300, it is deemed very unhealthy, and authorities typically advise children, the elderly, and people with health issues to stay indoors, while recommending that others limit outdoor activities. An AQI of 301–400 is categorized as hazardous, posing serious health risks to all residents.