Jakarta Ranks Third Globally for Worst Air Quality, Residents Urged to Wear Masks

Jakarta's air quality plunged to unhealthy levels on Thursday morning, placing the Indonesian capital third among cities with the worst air globally. Data from IQAir showed Jakarta's Air Quality Index (AQI) at 161, with PM2.5 pollution at 57 micrograms per cubic meter. This level is considered unhealthy, particularly for sensitive groups, and can harm humans, animals, and plants.

Authorities are urging residents to avoid outdoor activities and wear masks if they must go outside. Windows should be kept closed to minimize exposure to the polluted air. The AQI scale defines good air quality as 0-50 PM2.5, moderate as 51-100, unhealthy as 101-200, very unhealthy as 200-299, and hazardous as 300-500.

Kuwait City led the rankings with an AQI of 185, followed by Delhi at 169. In response, the Jakarta Provincial Government, in collaboration with the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG), is developing an early warning system. This system aims to provide more accurate air pollution forecasts, enabling vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with respiratory conditions, to take preventative measures.

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The public is advised to avoid outdoor activities. If outside, they should wear a mask and close windows to avoid exposure to polluted outdoor air.