Crime and Pollution in Guatemala City

Crime Data in Guatemala City

Crime Perception and Concerns

In 2024, Guatemala City's crime statistics reveal a high level of concern among residents. Despite efforts to improve safety, the city continues to grapple with significant crime issues, particularly in violent and property crimes.

The perception of safety drastically differs between day and night, with a notable increase in fear during nighttime hours.

Some notable concerns include:

• Property Crimes - Property crimes remain a severe concern in Guatemala City. The fear of theft, including car break-ins and home burglaries, contributes to a heightened sense of insecurity among residents.
• Drug-Related Issues - Concerns about drug-related crimes exist but are less pronounced compared to other crime issues. However, the presence of drug activities still affects certain areas and contributes to the overall crime perception.
• Violent Crimes - Violent crimes are a critical issue, with a high level of public concern. Incidents of physical assault and robbery significantly impact the community, leading to a pervasive feeling of threat.
• Public Safety - Residents feel notably unsafe at night, reflecting a widespread concern about personal safety after dark. While some feel relatively safer during the day, general safety perceptions still suggest room for improvement.

Crime Trends and Safety

• Rising Crime Concerns - There is a prevalent belief among residents that crime is on the rise, particularly in relation to violent crimes and corruption. This sentiment highlights the urgent need for effective crime control strategies.
• Specific Fears - Citizens harbor specific fears of being mugged, robbed, or physically attacked. Additionally, there are worries about car theft, which further strain the overall sense of public safety.

Summary of Crime in Guatemala City

While Guatemala City faces challenging crime issues, addressing the underlying factors and strengthening law enforcement initiatives could help mitigate these concerns. Building community trust and enhancing public safety measures remain essential for future improvements.

Air Quality and Pollution Levels

Air quality in Guatemala City poses a significant concern, primarily due to high levels of particulate matter linked to urban and industrial activities.

The general sentiment around air quality is negative, with many residents voicing worries about the associated health impacts.

• PM2.5 (Fine Particulate Matter) - The PM2.5 concentration in Guatemala City stands at a concerning level, suggesting potential health risks for vulnerable groups, including those with pre-existing health conditions.
• PM10 (Coarse Particulate Matter) - PM10 levels are considerably high, exacerbating pollution concerns and impacting air quality perceptions among residents. This is particularly noticeable in heavy traffic and industrial zones.

Waste and Noise Pollution

Waste management in Guatemala City faces significant challenges, contributing to a negative perception of cleanliness and city upkeep.

While noise pollution is less of a concern, it still affects life quality in densely populated areas with bustling traffic and urban activities.

• Garbage Disposal Satisfaction - Garbage disposal services are viewed unfavorably, with many residents expressing dissatisfaction over waste collection and management standards, impacting the city's cleanliness.
• Noise and Light Pollution - Although less severe than other forms of pollution, noise and light pollution remain issues in certain areas, particularly those with high traffic and dense housing.

Green Spaces and Water Quality

Despite its challenges, Guatemala City offers green spaces that serve as vital recreational areas, though they are not uniformly distributed or maintained.

Access to clean and safe drinking water is a concern, and improvements in water management are necessary to boost residents' confidence in water quality.

• Green and Parks Quality - Green spaces in Guatemala City receive moderate ratings, with residents valuing them for recreation but noting the need for better maintenance and accessibility.
• Drinking Water Quality - Water quality and accessibility are areas needing improvement, with current perceptions highlighting issues that affect confidence in drinking water safety.