Air pollution continues to worsen in major cities around the world due to climate change and rapid urbanization. On Tuesday (July 1), international air quality monitoring platform IQAir reported extremely hazardous air in Baghdad, the capital of Iraq. Meanwhile, Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, has long struggled with severe air pollution and has often ranked among the most polluted cities globally. However, recent data suggests a slight improvement in the city's air quality.

As of 7:30 AM, Dhaka recorded an AQI score of 89, placing it 14th on the list of the world’s most polluted cities. According to IQAir, this score falls within the “moderate” range. In contrast, Baghdad topped the list with a staggering AQI score of 1591. Other cities with high pollution levels include Kuwait City (221), Lahore (167), Kinshasa (163), and Dubai (155), ranking second through fifth, respectively.

Air Quality Index (AQI) scores between 0 and 50 are considered good, 51–100 are moderate, and 101–150 are classified as unhealthy for sensitive groups. Scores from 151 to 200 are deemed unhealthy for the general population. When the AQI reaches between 201 and 300, it is labeled “very unhealthy,” prompting health warnings for children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing conditions, who are advised to stay indoors. Scores between 301 and 400 are considered “hazardous,” posing serious health risks to all residents.