Dhaka ranked fourth among the world's cities with the worst air quality on Sunday morning, November 8, raising fresh concerns about pollution in the capital. The city recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) score of 182 at 8:34am, placing its air quality in the 'unhealthy' category, according to a report by United News of Bangladesh.

Pakistan's Lahore topped the global pollution ranking with an AQI score of 291. India's Delhi secured second position with 222, while Kolkata ranked third with a score of 216. Dhaka followed in fourth place among the most polluted cities.

An AQI score between 151 and 200 is classified as unhealthy, meaning exposure to polluted air can cause health problems. Higher readings indicate increasingly dangerous conditions, with scores between 201 and 300 considered very unhealthy and readings above 300 classified as hazardous.

Air pollution in Dhaka is influenced by several factors, including vehicle emissions, construction dust, industrial activities and particulate matter. Fine particles such as PM2.5 and larger particles like PM10 are among the pollutants monitored when calculating air quality.

The capital regularly experiences deteriorating air quality during the dry and winter seasons. Limited rainfall and changing weather conditions can allow pollutants to remain concentrated in the atmosphere, creating additional challenges for residents.

With Dhaka continuing to face serious air pollution challenges, residents are advised to limit prolonged outdoor activities during unhealthy conditions. Wearing suitable protective masks outdoors and avoiding outdoor exercise can help reduce exposure to polluted air.