The benefits of rain were visible in Dhaka's air just two days ago. But as the rain subsided, the capital's air has returned to its previous polluted state. On Friday morning around 10:30am, Dhaka ranked fourth among 124 cities worldwide, with an air quality index of 159, which is classified as unhealthy.

Following rainfall early Wednesday morning, the city's air quality had improved significantly. That day, the capital ranked 19th with an air quality index of 96, which is considered moderate. However, pollution levels surged again shortly after the rain stopped.

Rain now the only effective remedy

After various government initiatives to control air pollution in the capital have failed, rain has now become the only effective remedy. This was evident again on Wednesday morning. Without rainfall, the capital's residents are once again suffering from severe pollution.

The air quality data was obtained from IQAir, a Switzerland-based air quality monitoring organization. According to the organization, the two major sources of pollution in Dhaka are emissions from vehicles and industrial factories.

Pollution persists despite holiday

Friday is a weekly holiday when bus and other vehicle movement is reduced, and many factories remain closed. Yet the polluted air condition persists. Experts say that due to a lack of long-term planning, air pollution in the capital cannot be brought under control.