Bekasi Air Quality Index (AQI)

Loading live AQI data...

Loading historical AQI trends...

Bekasi, situated in West Java, Indonesia, occupies a strategic position within the Greater Jakarta metropolitan area, functioning as both a major satellite city and industrial hub. Located approximately 20 kilometers east of Jakarta's center, its coordinates at -6.2333, 107.0000 place it on the flat alluvial plains of northern Java, with an average elevation of just 11 meters above sea level, contributing to stagnant air conditions that trap pollutants. The city's geography is characterized by its proximity to the Citarum River, one of Indonesia's most polluted waterways, which flows through industrial zones, and its location near Jakarta Bay to the north, though coastal breezes are often limited by urban density. Bekasi lies within the Jabodetabek megacity region, creating a pronounced urban–rural gradient where eastern areas transition to agricultural lands, while the western and central parts are dominated by manufacturing complexes, residential sprawl, and heavy traffic corridors. This positioning within Indonesia's most industrialized corridor, combined with low-lying terrain that inhibits pollutant dispersion, makes Bekasi particularly vulnerable to air quality degradation, as emissions from local factories, vehicle exhaust, and transboundary haze from neighboring provinces accumulate in the humid, still air typical of tropical basins.

Bekasi's air quality follows a seasonal rhythm shaped by Indonesia's tropical monsoon climate, with distinct wet and dry phases influencing pollution levels. During the dry season from May to September, reduced rainfall and prevailing southeasterly winds allow pollutants to accumulate, leading to peak pollution months typically around August and September, when agricultural burning in Sumatra and Kalimantan can cause transboundary haze, exacerbating local emissions from vehicles and industry. This period often sees temperature inversions in the early morning, trapping smog near the ground, making it the least favorable time for outdoor activities, especially for sensitive groups like children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions. In contrast, the wet season from October to April brings frequent rain showers that help cleanse the air, with the lowest pollution levels usually occurring from December to February, offering better conditions for outdoor exercise. However, high humidity during this season can combine with pollutants to form haze and reduce visibility. Year-round, light winds and urban heat island effects from dense development limit natural ventilation, so residents are advised to monitor air quality reports daily, use air purifiers indoors, and avoid strenuous activities during peak traffic hours, regardless of season, to mitigate health risks.