Air pollution continues to worsen in cities around the world due to climate change and rapid urbanization, and Dhaka is no exception. As one of the most polluted megacities, Bangladesh’s capital frequently ranks among the top cities with the worst air quality.

On Thursday morning, May 1, Dhaka once again topped the list of the world’s most polluted cities. According to air quality monitoring platform IQAir, the city recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) score of 186 around 9:45 AM, placing it in the ‘unhealthy’ category. At the same time, Delhi ranked second with an AQI of 172, followed by Lahore in third with 168.

AQI levels are categorized as follows: 0–50 is considered good, 51–100 moderate, 101–150 unhealthy for sensitive groups, and 151–200 is deemed unhealthy for the general population. A score between 201 and 300 is labeled very unhealthy, advising children, the elderly, and those with health conditions to remain indoors and limit outdoor activities. Scores between 301 and 400 are considered hazardous, posing severe health risks to all residents.