Dhaka’s AQI Hits 159, Ranks 7th Worst in Global Air Pollution Index of March 4th

Dhaka is one of the world’s seven cities to have recorded the most horrific air quality on March 4th 2025 with an AQI of 159 classified under the group ‘unhealthy’ which poses health threats especially to sensitive groups.

The parameters calculated for building a pollution index were in order of Baghdad (294), Delhi (171) and Kampala (165) occupying the top three slots on the pollution index. The air quality of Dhaka has been terribly ruined during winter due to mainly vehicle emissions, industrial discharges and construction dust has returned in the rainy part of the year.

The AQI is measured based on PM10, PM2.5, NO2, carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur dioxide (SO2) and ozone levels. These create an unhealthy risk for respiratory diseases, heart diseases and strokes.

Health experts have advised to limit outdoor activities, wear masks and not hesitate to use air purifiers while pollution levels are high. They have urged authorities to implement stricter pollution-control measures to improve the air quality in the capital.