Air pollution continues to rise globally, with Dhaka ranking as the most polluted city on Monday, according to data from IQAir, an international air quality monitoring organization. At 8 a.m., Dhaka recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) score of 252, classified as "very unhealthy."

The situation was worse on Sunday morning, with Dhaka's AQI at 452, reaching hazardous levels throughout the day. AQI readings above 300 are considered critical, and in some areas, such as Gulshan, the score exceeded 700.

IQAir, a Switzerland-based organization, provides real-time air quality data to raise awareness and offer guidance. It advises Dhaka residents to wear masks outdoors to mitigate health risks.

Globally, Delhi, India, ranked second with an AQI score of 243, followed by Hanoi, Vietnam, at 232. Among other Bangladeshi cities, Chattogram recorded an AQI of 104, Rajshahi 174, and Khulna 176. Notable areas in Dhaka included Gulshan-2’s Rob Bhaban (341), the U.S. Embassy area (334), and Eastern Housing (294).

The primary pollutant in Dhaka is PM2.5 particulate matter, which is present at levels 33 times higher than WHO standards, highlighting the city's severe air quality crisis.