Indonesia is about to open the Asian Games but its traffic-clogged capital Jakarta remains shrouded in a haze of air pollution that threatens to mar the world-s second-biggest multi-sport event. Jakarta-s toxic skies have been stuck at unhealthy levels for weeks despite drastic efforts to cut down on congestion, including an odd-even licence plate system and the closure of some schools and toll roads.

The city-s air-quality index reading hovered around 107 on Friday, posing a danger for people sensitive to air pollution including those with respiratory problems. But the index has regularly topped 150 this month, which is considered a health threat to the general population. A reading over 300 is seen as hazardous. About 16,000 athletes and officials from 45 Asian countries -- along with hordes of sports-crazy tourists -- are flocking to Jakarta and co-host city Palembang for the showpiece event, which kicks off Saturday.