Experts warn that worsening air quality is exposing vulnerable groups and outdoor workers to rising health risks, with calls for stronger regulation and cleaner urban systems.
Air pollution is becoming an increasingly serious public health and environmental challenge in Bangladesh, particularly in major cities where traffic emissions, construction dust, brick kilns and industrial activities are contributing to deteriorating air quality.
Dhaka frequently experiences unhealthy levels of fine particulate matter, known as PM2.5, which can penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream. Children, older people and those with respiratory or cardiovascular illnesses are among the most vulnerable to prolonged exposure.
Environmental experts say rapid urbanisation, increasing numbers of vehicles, poorly managed construction sites, open burning of waste and emissions from industries and brick kilns are major sources of pollution. During the dry season, limited rainfall and dusty conditions can make the situation worse.
The health impacts can be severe. Long-term exposure to polluted air is associated with asthma, respiratory infections, heart disease, stroke and other chronic illnesses. Outdoor workers, traffic police, street vendors and people living close to busy roads or industrial areas face particularly high exposure.
Experts say stronger enforcement of environmental regulations is essential to reduce emissions. They have also called for improved public transport, tighter vehicle emission standards, cleaner industrial technology, better construction-site management and stricter controls on waste burning.
Urban planning can also play an important role. Increasing green spaces, protecting trees and reducing dependence on private vehicles could help improve air quality over the longer term.
Public awareness remains another challenge. Experts recommend that people monitor air-quality information, limit prolonged outdoor activity when pollution levels are very high and use appropriate protective measures when necessary.
As Bangladesh’s cities continue to expand, controlling air pollution will require coordinated action by government agencies, industries, local authorities and citizens. Without stronger measures, experts warn that worsening air quality could impose growing health and economic costs on the country.
