9Dhaka, Bangladesh
The capital of Bangladesh, Dhaka, is known for its extreme levels of air and water pollution. The city’s rapid industrialization, particularly in the textile and garment sectors, has led to unchecked emissions of harmful chemicals and heavy metals. Factories release untreated waste directly into rivers, contaminating water supplies and harming aquatic ecosystems. The Buriganga River, once a lifeline for the city, is now considered biologically dead due to the pollution. Additionally, Dhaka’s growing population has overwhelmed its waste management systems, resulting in streets filled with garbage and poor sanitation conditions.