Dhaka, the bustling capital of Bangladesh, has long faced severe air pollution challenges. As one of the fastest-growing megacities globally, its rapid urbanization, industrialization, and vehicular growth have intensified air quality problems. In 2025, Dhaka remains among the world’s most polluted cities, according to global air quality rankings.
This article delves into Dhaka’s air pollution ranking in 2025, identifies the key contributors, examines the consequences on public health and the environment, and highlights government and community-driven efforts to improve air quality.
Dhaka’s Air Pollution Ranking in 2025
According to the World Air Quality Report 2025, Dhaka ranks within the top 10 most polluted cities worldwide in terms of PM2.5 (fine particulate matter) concentration. With annual average PM2.5 levels hovering around 70-85 micrograms per cubic meter (µg/m³), the pollution far exceeds the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended limit of 5 µg/m³.
While slight improvements in air quality have been observed due to regulatory efforts, Dhaka’s pollution levels remain alarmingly high, posing a major health and environmental threat.
Main Causes of Air Pollution in Dhaka
1. Vehicular Emissions
The exponential growth of vehicles in Dhaka, many of which are old and poorly maintained, significantly contributes to air pollution. The city’s traffic congestion leads to prolonged idling and high emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx), carbon monoxide (CO), and particulate matter.
2. Industrial Pollution
Dhaka’s numerous factories, including textiles, brick kilns, and leather tanneries, release vast amounts of pollutants into the air. Brick kilns alone are responsible for a large share of PM2.5 emissions, especially during the dry season.
3. Construction Dust
Rapid urban development has led to increased construction activities, generating huge amounts of dust. Lack of dust control measures causes widespread particulate pollution.
4. Biomass Burning and Waste Incineration
In suburban and peri-urban areas, burning crop residues and municipal waste is common, releasing harmful pollutants like PM, dioxins, and heavy metals into the air.
5. Poor Waste Management
Open dumping and burning of solid waste release toxic gases, further deteriorating air quality.
Health Impacts of Air Pollution in Dhaka
Air pollution in Dhaka poses serious health risks to millions of residents:
- Respiratory Diseases: Increased cases of asthma, bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and lung infections are linked to high pollution.
- Cardiovascular Problems: Fine particulates can penetrate deep into the bloodstream, increasing risks of heart attacks and strokes.
- Child Health: Children are particularly vulnerable, with higher incidences of pneumonia and reduced lung development.
- Premature Deaths: Studies estimate that air pollution contributes to tens of thousands of premature deaths annually in Dhaka.
- Mental Health: Emerging research suggests a link between pollution and increased rates of anxiety and depression.
Seasonal Variations in Pollution Levels
Dhaka experiences significant seasonal variations:
- Winter: Pollution peaks during winter months due to temperature inversion trapping pollutants near the ground.
- Pre-monsoon and Monsoon: Rain helps reduce dust and particulate matter temporarily.
- Dry Season: Increased dust from construction and brick kilns aggravate air quality.
Government Initiatives to Improve Air Quality
The Bangladesh government has launched several programs aimed at reducing pollution in Dhaka:
1. Vehicle Emission Control
- Phasing out old, polluting vehicles.
- Promoting electric and CNG-run vehicles.
- Regular emission testing and enforcement of standards.
2. Industrial Regulation
- Installing air pollution control devices in factories.
- Regulating brick kilns to use cleaner technologies such as zig-zag kilns.
- Closure of illegal factories causing high emissions.
3. Urban Greening Programs
- Planting trees along roads and open spaces to act as natural air filters.
4. Waste Management Improvements
- Developing proper waste collection and recycling systems.
- Banning open waste burning.
5. Public Awareness Campaigns
- Educating citizens about pollution sources and preventive measures.
Role of NGOs and International Organizations
Organizations like the World Bank, UNDP, and local NGOs actively support air quality improvement projects:
- Funding cleaner technology adoption.
- Supporting air monitoring networks.
- Community-based air pollution awareness programs.
Technological Advances in Air Quality Monitoring
Dhaka has expanded its network of air quality monitoring stations, employing real-time data and satellite imagery. This enables better forecasting and targeted interventions.
Challenges in Tackling Air Pollution in Dhaka
Despite progress, several challenges remain:
- Rapid urban growth outpacing infrastructure development.
- Insufficient enforcement of environmental laws.
- Public resistance to behavioral changes, such as reducing private vehicle use.
- Limited financial resources for large-scale interventions.
Future Outlook and Recommendations
To improve Dhaka’s air quality ranking and safeguard public health, the following actions are essential:
- Accelerate the transition to clean energy and electric vehicles.
- Implement stricter industrial emission standards and monitoring.
- Enhance public transportation infrastructure to reduce private vehicle dependency.
- Promote urban planning that incorporates green spaces and pollution buffers.
- Foster collaboration between government, private sector, and civil society.
- Expand air quality awareness and health advisories to vulnerable groups.
Conclusion
In 2025, Dhaka’s position as one of the world’s most polluted cities underscores the urgent need for multi-faceted solutions to combat air pollution. While government initiatives have laid the groundwork for improvement, sustained commitment, technological innovation, and community engagement are vital to transform Dhaka into a healthier and more livable city.