Air pollution continues to rise across major cities worldwide due to climate change and rapid urbanization. Dhaka, one of the largest megacities, has long struggled with severe air quality issues. The capital of Bangladesh frequently appears among the most polluted cities globally. However, recent rainfall has contributed to a slight improvement in its air quality.

According to data from international air quality monitoring platform IQAir, as of 7:30 AM on Wednesday, July 30, Dhaka scored 82 on the Air Quality Index (AQI), placing it in the 18th position among the world’s most polluted cities. This score falls within the “moderate” category.

At the same time, Kinshasa—the capital of the Democratic Republic of the Congo—topped the list with an AQI score of 195. Santiago, Chile, followed with a score of 163; Dubai, UAE, came third at 157; Hanoi, Vietnam, stood fourth with 138; and Doha, Qatar, rounded out the top five with a score of 135.

Understanding AQI Categories:

0–50: Good

51–100: Moderate

101–150: Unhealthy for sensitive groups

151–200: Unhealthy

201–300: Very unhealthy (citizens, especially children, the elderly, and the ill, are advised to stay indoors)

301–400: Hazardous (poses serious health risks to the general public)

Dhaka's brief improvement offers relief, but experts warn that sustainable policies and long-term solutions are essential to address the root causes of air pollution.