DHAKA, December 4, 2022 — Exposure to high level of air pollution significantly raises the risks of breathing difficulties, cough, lower respiratory tract infections, as well as depression and other health conditions. Children under five years, elderly, and people with comorbidities such as diabetes, heart or respiratory conditions, are most vulnerable, says a new World Bank report launched today. 

The report ‘Breathing Heavy: New Evidence on Air Pollution and Health in Bangladesh’ assessed the impacts of outdoor air pollution on physical and mental health in Dhaka and Sylhet. To reduce air pollution impacts on health, the report recommended immediate actions, including improving public health services and response mechanisms, improving air pollution data monitoring systems, investing in early warning systems, and engaging in further research.

The report finds that the sites with major construction and persistent traffic in the Dhaka City have the highest level of air pollution. At these sites, the fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which is considered most hazardous to health, is on average 150 percent above the WHO Air Quality Guidelines (AQG), which is equivalent to smoking about 1.7 cigarettes per day. The second highest concentration of PM2.5 levels is found near brick kilns in Greater Dhaka, which is 136 percent above the WHO AQG – equivalent to smoking 1.6 cigarettes per day.