Due to climate change and other factors, air pollution levels in major cities around the world are increasing daily. Dhaka, the megacity, often ranks among the most polluted cities globally. However, during the rainy season, the capital’s position on this list tends to drop significantly.

On Saturday morning (July 26), Dhaka ranked 30th among the world’s most polluted cities, according to data from the international air quality technology firm IQAir. With a score of 69, the city’s air quality is considered moderate.

At the same time, Kampala, the capital of Uganda, topped the list with a score of 184, followed by Cairo, Egypt with 178. Bahrain’s Manama ranked third with 174, tied with Montreal, Canada in fourth place. Indonesia’s Medan city was ranked fifth.

The Air Quality Index (AQI) scores range from 0 to 500. A score between 0 and 50 is considered good, 51 to 100 moderate, and 101 to 150 unhealthy for sensitive groups. Scores between 151 and 200 are considered unhealthy.

An AQI score between 201 and 300 is classified as very unhealthy, prompting advice for children, elderly, and those with health issues to stay indoors, while others should limit outdoor activities. Scores between 301 and 400 are labeled hazardous, posing serious health risks to city residents.