Air pollution in Dhaka, like in many other cities, is caused by a combination of factors, including industrial activities, vehicular emissions, construction work, burning of biomass and fossil fuels, and geographical and meteorological conditions. Here are some specific causes:
- Vehicle Emissions: Dhaka’s heavy traffic congestion contributes significantly to air pollution. The large number of vehicles on the roads emit pollutants such as carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NOx), particulate matter (PM), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
- Industrial Emissions: The presence of numerous industries in and around Dhaka, including textile factories, brick kilns, and manufacturing plants, releases pollutants into the air. These industries often use fossil fuels and outdated technology, leading to high emissions of sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter.
- Construction Activities: Construction projects generate dust and emissions from machinery and equipment, contributing to particulate matter pollution in the air.
- Open Burning of Waste: Improper disposal of waste, including burning of garbage and biomass, releases pollutants such as carbon dioxide (CO2), particulate matter, and toxic gases into the atmosphere.
- Cooking and Heating Fuels: Many households in Dhaka use solid fuels such as wood, coal, and biomass for cooking and heating, especially in low-income areas. The burning of these fuels indoors releases pollutants such as PM, carbon monoxide, and volatile organic compounds, contributing to both indoor and outdoor air pollution.
- Geographical and Meteorological Factors: Dhaka’s geographical location and meteorological conditions, such as its topography and climate, can exacerbate air pollution. For example, temperature inversions can trap pollutants close to the ground, leading to the formation of smog and worsening air quality.
- Biomass Burning in Agriculture: Agricultural practices, including burning of crop residues and forests for land clearing, contribute to air pollution, especially during certain times of the year.
Addressing air pollution in Dhaka requires comprehensive strategies, including improving vehicle emissions standards, promoting cleaner fuels and technologies, regulating industrial emissions, implementing waste management practices, promoting public transportation, and raising awareness about the importance of air quality.