Gazipur Air Quality Index (AQI)

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Gazipur, situated within Bangladesh's Dhaka Division, occupies a strategic position in the country's industrial heartland, approximately 40 kilometres north of the capital Dhaka. The city lies within the vast Ganges-Brahmaputra-Meghna delta, characterized by flat alluvial plains with minimal elevation variation, typically ranging from 1 to 10 metres above sea level. This low-lying terrain, intersected by numerous rivers and canals like the Turag and Balu, creates a natural basin that traps pollutants, exacerbating air quality issues. Gazipur forms part of the Greater Dhaka conurbation, exhibiting a pronounced urban–rural gradient where dense industrial zones transition into peri-urban and agricultural areas. The city is enveloped by Bangladesh's primary industrial belt, hosting thousands of garment factories, brick kilns, and other manufacturing units, while surrounding regions feature rice paddies and seasonal crop fields. Proximity to the Buriganga River system and the Bay of Bengal, though distant, influences local humidity and occasional sea breezes. However, the city's location in a densely populated riverine plain, combined with its role as a major industrial hub, creates a perfect storm for pollution accumulation, as emissions from factories, vehicles, and construction activities become trapped by the topography and urban heat island effects, with limited natural ventilation to disperse contaminants.

Gazipur's air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern shaped by its tropical wet-and-dry climate and monsoon rhythms. During the dry winter months from November to February, pollution peaks dramatically due to a combination of meteorological factors: low wind speeds, frequent temperature inversions that trap pollutants near the ground, and reduced rainfall. This period sees heightened emissions from brick kilns operating at full capacity and increased biomass burning, compounded by fog and haze that reduce visibility and concentrate contaminants. Sensitive groups, such as children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions, should avoid prolonged outdoor activities during these months, especially in early mornings when inversion layers are strongest. The pre-monsoon season from March to May brings extreme heat, which can elevate ground-level ozone, though occasional thunderstorms provide temporary relief by washing out particulates. The monsoon from June to September offers the cleanest air, as heavy rains scrub pollutants from the atmosphere and strong southwesterly winds disperse emissions, making this the best time for outdoor activities. Post-monsoon months in October see a gradual return of pollution as dry conditions set in. Health guidance emphasizes using N95 masks during peak pollution periods, monitoring local air quality reports, and limiting exposure during high-traffic hours to mitigate risks from vehicle exhaust and industrial plumes.