Dhaka: The Department of Environment (DoE) has mandated that city dwellers wear face masks when going outside due to the significant deterioration of the city's air quality index (AQI), which has reached a very unhealthy level. A press release from the DoE emphasized, "Wearing a face mask for city dwellers outside is a must."
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the environment authority issued this alert for residents of the capital and surrounding areas after the AQI exceeded 250 at 10 am this morning, as per the latest air quality monitoring report. The DoE's warning also extends to sensitive groups, including those who are ailing, elderly, or children, advising them to remain indoors unless there is an emergency.
The DoE noted that the air quality index fluctuates hourly, often reaching levels from unhealthy to vulnerable, particularly during the dry season in the city and its neighboring areas.