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Rising Air Pollution in Bangladesh’s Urban Centers

In most developing countries like Bangladesh, air pollution is a growing concern. Rapid industrialization and urbanization have resulted in heightened levels of air pollution, particularly in the urban areas in Bangladesh. The adverse health effects of air pollution, such as respiratory diseases, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer, significantly impact public health and the country’s economy. In this data blog, I use data and visualizations to explore the current air pollution status in Bangladesh’s urban centers.

According to the World Air Quality Report 2021, Dhaka, the capital city of Bangladesh, was ranked as the world’s third-most polluted city, with an average annual PM2.5 concentration of 77.1 μg/m³ in 2020. PM2.5 refers to fine particulate matter, a major contributor to air pollution and can penetrate deep into the lungs, causing respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Other major cities in Bangladesh, such as Chattogram, Narayanganj, and Gazipur, also have high levels of air pollution.

Moreover, Bangladesh’s air quality index (AQI) regularly exceeds the safe limit set by the World Health Organization (WHO), which is 50 μg/m³ for PM2.5. In 2020, the average annual AQI in Dhaka was 166, which is considered unhealthy. The AQI levels in other major cities in Bangladesh were also above the safe limit.

Several factors contribute to air pollution in Bangladesh’s urban centers, including industrialization, transportation, and brick kilns. Bangladesh’s rapid industrialization and urbanization have led to an increase in the number of factories and industries which emit harmful pollutants into the air. The transportation sector, particularly the high number of road vehicles, also contributes significantly to air pollution. Furthermore, brick kilns, a significant source of particulate matter emissions, contribute to air pollution in Bangladesh.

Air pollution is a growing concern in Bangladesh’s urban centers, with high levels of PM2.5 and AQI exceeding safe limits. The adverse health effects of air pollution require immediate action. The government of Bangladesh and relevant stakeholders should take measures to reduce emissions from industries, transportation, and brick kilns and promote clean energy sources.