Jakarta's Air Quality Ranks Among the World’s Worst, Prompting Health Advisories

On June 17 2026 Jakarta’s air‑quality index (AQI) hit 175, placing the capital second‑worst globally after Lahore, Pakistan, according to IQAir data. Fine‑particle (PM2.5) concentrations reached 88.5 µg/m³, classifying the air as unhealthy for the whole population. The next day the AQI measured 146, still in the “unhealthy for sensitive groups” range.

Health officials urged children, the elderly, pregnant women and anyone with respiratory conditions to wear masks, limit non‑essential outdoor activities, stay hydrated and avoid direct sun exposure, especially as temperatures climbed to about 43 °C. Jakarta’s government highlighted transport‑expansion plans, such as extending Trans‑Jakarta bus routes, as part of its strategy to curb vehicle emissions and improve air quality.

Residents were also advised to monitor official updates on air quality and heat conditions to protect their health.