Jakarta Air Quality Improves After Water Spraying, Environment Agency Says

Jakarta's air quality showed signs of improvement after authorities sprayed water over volcanic ash from the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau, the Jakarta Environment Agency said.

Monitoring on Sept. 6 and 7 found that areas with high PM10 concentrations had narrowed. The change was most visible in parts of Central, East and South Jakarta, where high PM10 levels had previously spread across wider areas. After the spraying, the main areas still recording high PM10 were eastern Cilincing and southeastern Cipayung.

Agency head Dudi Gardesi said the operation aimed to wet ash that had settled on roads and other surfaces. Dry ash can become airborne again because of wind or passing vehicles. Moistening the deposits should prevent them from being lifted easily and make them easier to clean, in line with volcanic-ash handling guidance published by the United States Geological Survey.

“

The narrowing spread of high PM10 is an encouraging development.

Monitoring also covered PM2.5 and sulfur dioxide. High PM2.5 concentrations declined across some areas of North and East Jakarta, but Kembangan and Kebon Jeruk remained areas of concern. Sulfur dioxide levels had not improved evenly, making continued monitoring of each pollutant necessary.

Gardesi said the results would help the provincial government identify priority areas and publicly report developments. The agency urged residents to remain calm and vigilant while volcanic ash continued to affect air conditions, and to wear masks when going outside.

“

We will use the monitoring results to determine which locations need priority attention, while also openly communicating developments in air conditions.