Jakarta air unhealthy for sensitive groups on Wednesday morning
Jakarta air quality was recorded as unhealthy for sensitive groups, with recommendations to avoid outdoor activities, according to the IQAir website on Wednesday morning, following an update at 06:00 WIB.
IQAir noted that Jakarta’s air quality stood at 127 points, with PM 2.5 pollutant concentrations at 46.3 micrograms per cubic metre, which is 9.3 times higher than the World Health Organisation (WHO) annual air quality guideline value.
PM 2.5 refers to fine particulate matter smaller than 2.5 microns (micrometres) found in the air, including dust, smoke, and soot. Long-term exposure to these particles is linked to premature death, particularly in individuals with chronic heart or lung diseases.
Health recommendations regarding the current air quality include avoiding outdoor activities, wearing masks, closing windows to prevent dirty outdoor air from entering, and using air purifiers.
Jakarta’s air quality on Wednesday was ranked as the ninth worst in Indonesia, following Pontianak (765), Palembang (192), Bandung (165), Palangkaraya (163), Pekanbaru (156), Surabaya (156), Serpong (153), and South Tangerang (147).
Meanwhile, the Jakarta Provincial Government, through the Health Office, has reminded the public to ensure adequate water intake to prevent dehydration, check air quality before engaging in activities, and protect vulnerable groups during periods of poor air quality. Residents are advised to seek medical attention immediately if experiencing prolonged coughing, shortness of breath, chest pain, or irritation in the eyes or throat.
On the other hand, the Jakarta Provincial Government stated that the implementation of Car Free Day (CFD) on Jalan H.R. Rasuna Said and the Sudirman-Thamrin area has proven to help reduce motor vehicle emissions and lower air pollution in Jakarta. This reduction is believed to be influenced by the decrease in vehicle traffic in the city centre during the event.
The transport sector is known to remain one of the primary contributors to air pollution in Jakarta. Consequently, the Jakarta Provincial Government continues to encourage the reduction of private vehicle use through various policies, including the implementation of Car Free Day. In addition to providing healthier and more comfortable public spaces, the implementation of CFD is also expected to increase public awareness regarding the importance of maintaining air quality.