Keep wearing masks as Jakarta's air quality ranks fourth worst globally

Jakarta’s air quality on Wednesday morning was classified as unhealthy, ranking fourth globally for the worst air quality. According to IQAir monitoring data at 5:50 AM WIB, the city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 152, falling into the unhealthy category with PM2.5 pollution concentration at 59.9 micrograms per cubic metre. This level indicates unhealthy air for sensitive groups, potentially harming humans and animals with sensitivity, as well as causing damage to plants and aesthetic values. The site also recommended residents avoid outdoor activities; those outside should wear masks and close windows to prevent exposure to polluted air. Good air quality, with PM2.5 levels between 0-50, has no effect on human or animal health, plants, buildings, or aesthetic values. Moderate air quality, with PM2.5 between 51-100, does not affect human or animal health but impacts sensitive plants and aesthetic values. Very unhealthy air quality (PM2.5 200-299) can harm exposed population segments, while hazardous levels (300-500) pose serious health risks to the general population. The cities ranked worst for air quality were Lahore, Pakistan (162, first), Delhi, India (155, second), Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo (152, third), Jakarta (152, fourth), and Johannesburg, South Africa (103, fifth). Meanwhile, the Jakarta Provincial Government has prepared rapid responses to tackle air pollution during the dry season, expected from early May to August. These measures include enhancing air quality monitoring systems and vehicle emissions testing. Additionally, the Jakarta Provincial Government has an Air Pollution Control Strategy (SPPU) under review across various aspects, including PM2.5 trends, sectoral emission loads, and public health impacts. According to the Jakarta Provincial Government, air pollution control cannot be addressed by a single region in isolation, requiring integrated action among local agencies and cross-regional collaboration around Jakarta.