On June 23, 2024, Jakarta marked its 497th anniversary with the Jakarta International Marathon, an event that drew both local and international participants. However, the celebrations were overshadowed by alarming air quality levels, as recorded by IQAir. At 6:00 AM, Jakarta’s Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 166, placing the city among the top global locations for poor air quality. The concentration of harmful particulate matter (PM 2.5) reached 77 micrograms per cubic meter, a number drastically higher than the annual air quality standards set by the World Health Organization (WHO).
Pollution and Its Health Impact:
The air pollution in Jakarta is becoming a growing public health concern. Unlike food or water, air is something that residents have no control over and must inhale constantly. Exposure to high levels of pollutants such as PM 10, PM 2.5, carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and ozone can lead to a range of health problems. Short-term effects include respiratory irritation, coughing, and difficulty breathing, while long-term exposure can exacerbate chronic conditions like asthma, bronchitis, and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Over time, this exposure can cause permanent damage to the lungs and cardiovascular system.
Recommendations for the Public:
In light of the deteriorating air quality, residents of Jakarta are advised to limit outdoor activities, especially during peak pollution times. A healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, adequate rest, and avoiding smoking, is essential in mitigating health risks. Individuals with pre-existing respiratory or heart conditions are urged to adhere to their prescribed treatments and avoid exposure to polluted air as much as possible. The urgent need for comprehensive action to address Jakarta’s air pollution is clear, and public health initiatives must be strengthened to protect residents’ well-being.
Date: June 23, 2024
Location: Jakarta, Indonesia
Event: Jakarta International Marathon, coinciding with Jakarta’s 497th Anniversary
Host: IQAir, Jakarta International Marathon
