Dhaka Air Quality Index worsen in November 23, 2023, compare with October 23, 2023

In November 2023, the Air Quality Index (AQI) of Dhaka was pointedly high comparing with the previous month. In November AQI recorded 3 days as “very unhealthy” and 25 days as “unhealthy”, whereas 23 days was “unhealthy” in the previous month. It is remarkable that in October 23 none of days was observed as “very unhealthy”.

In this period maximum AQI was 232 comparing previous month was 183. The minimum AQI was 46 though in October it was 77, and the 30-day average AQI was 172.2 while 152.5 was in October 23 (source-IQair). In this article, we will analyze day-to-day AQI data, compare last months data with acceptable limits for human life.

AQI Information for November 2023

Dhaka’s air quality was pointedly worse in November 2023, with the highest AQI recorded 232 on November 23^rd. This level falls within the ” very unhealthy” range, posing a severe risk to public health. The lowest AQI recorded was 46 on 17^th November which is in “good” AQI level.

We observed a total of 03 days in November 201 to 250 AQI range, 25 days 151 to 200 AQI range, only 01 days within the range of 101 to 150 AQI considered as “unhealthy for sensitive group” only the remaining 01 days were within 0 to 50 AQI range in the “good” group. No days observed as 51 to 100 AQI range.  It is noticeable that highest AQI level observed on 22^nd, 23th and 24^th November 2023.

Dhaka AQI Comparison between October 23 and November 23.

Table 01: AQI data compare in between October 23 and November 2023.

What is AQI:

The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a numerical scale used to communicate the quality of air in a specific location. It provides information about the concentration of various air pollutants and their potential impact on human health. The AQI is commonly used by environmental agencies and organizations to inform the public about air quality conditions. (Source: Air Now)

Here is a general description of the AQI data and its associated categories:

Scale Range:

The AQI scale typically ranges from 0 to 500.

The lower the AQI value, the better the air quality, and vice versa.

Categories:

The AQI is divided into different categories, each representing a range of air quality conditions.

The categories often include:

0-50: Good (Air quality is considered satisfactory, and air pollution poses little or no risk.)

51-100: Moderate (Air quality is acceptable; however, there may be concerns for some individuals who are unusually sensitive to air pollution.)

101-150: Unhealthy for sensitive groups (Members of sensitive groups may experience health effects, but the general public is less likely to be affected.)

151-200: Unhealthy (Everyone may begin to experience adverse health effects, and members of sensitive groups may experience more serious effects.)

201-300: Very unhealthy (Health alert: everyone may experience more serious health effects.)

301-500: Hazardous (Health warnings of emergency conditions; the entire population is more likely to be affected.)

Parameters Monitored:
The AQI is calculated based on the concentrations of specific air pollutants, including:
Ground-level ozone (O3)
Particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5)
Carbon monoxide (CO)
Sulfur dioxide (SO2)
Nitrogen dioxide (NO2)

Data Sources:
Air quality monitoring stations collect real-time data on pollutant concentrations.
Meteorological factors such as temperature, humidity, and wind speed may also be considered.

Public Awareness:

AQI data is often made available to the public through government websites, mobile apps, and other communication channels.

It helps individuals and communities make informed decisions about outdoor activities and take precautions during periods of poor air quality.

Monitoring and understanding AQI data are crucial for safeguarding public health and implementing measures to reduce air pollution when necessary. (Source: National Weather Service)

Conclusion:

Monitoring and addressing air quality in Dhaka is crucial for safeguarding public health and creating a sustainable living environment. By implementing the recommended mitigation strategies, we can strive towards cleaner air, healthier lives, and a brighter future for Dhaka. Let us collectively work towards creating an environment where clean air becomes a fundamental right for all.

Reference

1. Dhaka Air Quality Index (AQI) and Bangladesh Air Pollution
2. Air Now
3. National Weather Service