Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, has become the world’s second most polluted city, according to recent air quality data. The surge in pollution levels was recorded on Monday, as the city and surrounding regions experienced a sharp increase in hazardous particulate matter.
Authorities reported that the pollution levels in Dhaka have reached dangerous thresholds, with PM2.5 concentrations exceeding World Health Organization guidelines. The situation has worsened rapidly over the past week, with neighboring areas also showing similar trends.
The spike in pollution is attributed to a combination of factors, including increased vehicular traffic, industrial emissions, and seasonal weather patterns that trap pollutants near the ground. Local officials have warned that the air quality could deteriorate further without immediate intervention.
This is the second time Dhaka has been ranked among the world’s most polluted cities in recent years. Previous reports highlighted the city’s struggle with chronic air pollution, exacerbated by rapid urbanization and inadequate waste management systems.
The government has announced plans to implement stricter emission controls and expand public transportation networks. However, experts caution that long-term solutions will require significant investment and policy reforms to address the root causes of the pollution crisis.
