Dhaka's rapid growth, with a population exceeding 21 million, has led to chronic traffic congestion and industrial emissions, worsening the city's air quality, a recent study has revealed.
The research, conducted between February and April 2024, reports that particulate matter (PM2.5) concentrations in Dhaka consistently exceed national safety guidelines, particularly during the winter months when levels reached an average of 165-175 µg/m³-significantly higher than the permissible limits.
The researchers emphasise the need for stricter emission standards, better urban planning, and the promotion of cleaner transportation options. Integrating green spaces and pedestrian-friendly zones into Dhaka's urban fabric would also be beneficial. The report suggests that stronger public awareness campaigns and enforcing air quality regulations could contribute to sustainable urban growth, helping to protect the health of Dhaka's citizens.
Conducted by Ashfaqur Rahman and a team of researchers from the Young's Organisation of Urban Research (YOUR), Western Illinois University, and several other institutions, the study sheds light on the hazardous impact of rapid urbanisation, poor infrastructure, and unchecked vehicle emissions on the city's air quality.
In contrast, the concentration was somewhat lower during the monsoon season, averaging between 30-35 µg/m³. However, even these levels are sufficient to pose serious risks to respiratory health, especially for vulnerable populations.
The study highlights that coal-fired power stations and industrial pollutants release harmful chemicals such as carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulphur oxides (SOx), and chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), contributing significantly to both local air pollution and global climate change.
"Our findings show that immediate and comprehensive action is needed to address the deteriorating air quality in Dhaka. This is not just an environmental issue-it's a matter of public health and economic sustainability," says Ashfaqur Rahman from Western Illinois University.
According to the World Bank, losses due to air pollution in 2019 alone amounted to between $11.5 billion and $13 billion, equivalent to 3.9% to 4.4% of Bangladesh's GDP. The study urges the Bangladesh government to expedite the implementation of policies that prioritise sustainable development, especially in urban areas like Dhaka where the quality of life is rapidly declining.
"Addressing air pollution in Dhaka requires a multi-sectoral approach involving all stakeholders, including the government, private sector, and civil society. Ensuring cleaner air for future generations is a shared responsibility," added co-researcher Faisal Ahmed from the College of Computer and Information Engineering, Jiangxi Normal University, China.
The study's contributors include experts from various academic and research institutions, including the Institute of Leather Engineering and Technology at the University of Dhaka, the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering at Presidency University, Bangladesh, and the Department of Software Engineering at Chengdu Neusoft University, China.
