Govt advises people in Dhaka to wear masks outdoors

People have been advised to wear masks when outdoors as the air quality in Dhaka and its surrounding areas has worsened to unhealthy and sometimes to hazardous level (AQI > 250).

The environment, forest and climate change ministry also suggested sensitive people to stay indoors unless they need to go out for absolutely necessary.

Air quality data is regularly updated on the Department of Environment’s website and people are urged to monitor this information and take necessary precautions accordingly, said a press release of the ministry on Tuesday.

It also requested all to contribute to air pollution control from their respective positions.

Brick kiln, factory owners and general people were advised to refrain from burning solid waste, install proper enclosures and covers at construction sites, keep construction materials covered, ensure trucks or lorries transporting construction materials are fully covered, spray water around construction areas at least twice a day, avoid operating old and smoke-emitting vehicles on roads.

Controlling air pollution is a time-consuming process and the government urges all stakeholders to collaborate in this effort, said the release.