Govt monitors air quality in areas affected by Anak Krakatau ash

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4 hours ago

Jakarta (ANTARA) – Indonesia’s Environment Ministry is monitoring air quality in areas affected by Mount Anak Krakatau’s ash, with several southern Sumatra locations registering “very unhealthy” conditions.

Acting Deputy for Pollution and Environmental Damage Control Noer Adi Wardoyo said dmonitoring was being conducted continuously through the Air Quality Monitoring System and Air Pollution Standard Index.

The ministry deployed a technical team to monitor PM2.5, PM10 and sulfur dioxide levels, as well as seawater quality along the Banten and Lampung coasts.

Data recorded through 2 p.m. Sunday showed “very unhealthy” readings at stations in Palembang Bukit Kecil, Penukal Abab Lematang Ilir and Ogan Ilir.

“Unhealthy” readings were recorded in Lahat, Musi Rawas, Prabumulih, Musi Banyuasin Serasan Jaya, Tebo, Jambi Paal Lima and Tanjung Jabung Timur Muara Sabak.

“Moderate” air quality was recorded in Muara Enim, Bengkulu Singaran Pati and Bandar Lampung Talang.

In Java, monitoring stations in Greater Jakarta and Banten, including Jakarta GBK, Serang Sumurpecung, Tangerang Pasir Jaya, South Tangerang Serpong, Cilegon Pulomerak and Bogor Leuwiliang, recorded moderate conditions.

The ministry said seasonal forest and land fires in southern Sumatra were also contributing to particulate pollution and affecting overall air-quality assessments.

Officials are conducting further technical studies to determine whether elevated particulate levels are directly linked to Mount Anak Krakatau’s volcanic activity.

The ministry urged residents to remain calm, follow official government information and monitor changes in air quality as volcanic ash spreads.

Children, older people, pregnant women and those with respiratory problems were advised to wear protective masks when outdoor activity is necessary.