Jakarta Pollution May Lead to Athletes’ Protest

Kompas/Agus Susanto

Low, grey clouds are seen on Sunday (18/2) in the sky over Bung Karno Stadium in Senayan, Jakarta. Clean air in Jakarta is a crucial issue, as the capital will host the 2018 Asian Games. A breakthrough is needed to improve the air quality in the city, which has an air quality index of PM 2.5 that indicates medium pollution, or unhealthy conditions.

JAKARTA, KOMPAS – Concerns are arising that air pollution in Jakarta may lead to protests  from foreign athletes during the 2018 Asian Games, which will be held from August 18 to September 2. Air pollution may hinder athletes from giving their best performance during sports events and may even lead to health risks.

Leaded Fuel Eradication Committee (KPBB) executive director Ahmad Safrudin said on Tuesday (20/2/2018) that a number of Chinese and Indian officials had raised these concerns with him recently. “Most recently, on [Monday morning], I received a phone call from Beijing asking [about air pollution in Jakarta],” he said.