Jakarta hits unhealthy AQI levels as several Indonesian cities record dangerous air pollution

Air-quality monitoring on 5 June reported Jakarta’s Air Quality Index at 117, classifying the day as unhealthy for sensitive groups. The PM2.5 concentration reached 42.2 µg/m³, prompting health warnings for children, the elderly and people with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions.

The same monitoring, using IQAir data, showed that other Indonesian cities also faced severe pollution. Tangerang Selatan recorded an AQI of 193, Surabaya 192, Jakarta 177, Tangerang 176 and Bandung 156 – all in the “unhealthy for sensitive groups” range. Authorities advised the public to limit outdoor activities and wear masks, especially in the most affected areas. The reports placed Jakarta among the world’s most polluted capitals alongside Kinshasa, Kathmandu, Wuhan and Kolkata.

Health officials emphasized that prolonged exposure to high PM2.5 levels can aggravate asthma, chronic lung disease and increase overall respiratory risk, urging residents to follow mitigation guidance while long‑term air‑quality improvement measures are considered.