Crime and Pollution in Portmore

Crime Data in Portmore

Crime Perception and Concerns

In 2024, Portmore faces significant challenges with crime, with a high crime index indicating pervasive concerns. Residents are alarmed about the increasing rates of crime, notably property crimes and drug-related issues.

The distinction between daytime and nighttime safety is stark, with the majority feeling unsafe when alone at night.

Some notable concerns include:

• Property Crimes - Property crimes, such as home invasions and car thefts, are a substantial concern in Portmore. The anxiety surrounding property security is one of the most pronounced issues for residents.
• Drug-Related Issues - Drug-related crimes present ongoing challenges. There is a noticeable apprehension within the community regarding how these crimes affect public safety and quality of life.
• Violent Crimes - Violent crimes, including assaults and robbery, are also significant concerns for residents. The fear of violent encounters contributes heavily to the lack of safety perceived across the city.
• Public Safety - Feelings of safety significantly diminish during nighttime, with many residents experiencing heightened anxiety about the potential for crimes such as muggings and attacks.

Crime Trends and Safety

• Rising Crime Concerns - The perception of rising crime rates is a daunting reality for Portmore’s residents. Reports of crime increases highlight systemic issues, exacerbating fears of safety.
• Specific Fears - There are heightened fears surrounding car theft and personal assault. While issues of discriminatory violence are less pronounced, the overall environment still calls for vigilance.

Summary of Crime in Portmore

Portmore is experiencing a challenging period wherein addressing both violent and property crimes is crucial. Efforts to enhance policing strategies and foster community resilience against crime are essential steps toward improving safety.

Crime Rankings

The crime ranking by city for Jamaica is based on a continuously updated index, incorporating data up to 36 months old and calculated twice a year. Cities are ranked on a scale from "very low" to "very high" crime levels, with safety being the inverse, where a high safety index indicates a safer city.

1. Kingston

Jamaica

Air Quality and Pollution Levels

Portmore's pollution levels are concerning, particularly with regards to poor air quality stemming from high particulate matter. These environmental conditions have raised significant health concerns among the population.

Air quality is notably poor, leading to public outcry for measures to address pollution from vehicles and local industry.

• PM2.5 (Fine Particulate Matter) - PM2.5 levels are elevated, posing health threats, especially to vulnerable populations such as those with respiratory issues. This contributes to the broader concern over air quality.
• PM10 (Coarse Particulate Matter) - PM10 levels are also significant, emphasizing the persistent challenges with air pollution in Portmore.

Waste and Noise Pollution

Noise pollution is less of a problem compared to other issues, yet it occasionally disrupts community tranquility. Waste management, however, leaves much to be desired, impacting neighborhood cleanliness.

Perceptions of cleanliness and sanitation are unfavorable, with many feeling that waste management services require significant improvement.

• Garbage Disposal Satisfaction - Residents are dissatisfied with garbage disposal services, contributing to a broader negative perception of environmental conditions in Portmore.
• Noise and Light Pollution - While not the most pressing issue, some noise pollution still affects urban areas, impacting residents' quality of life.

Green Spaces and Water Quality

Green spaces in Portmore are not seen as plentiful or well-maintained, leading to calls for better urban planning and park management.

Water quality and accessibility are moderate, with room for improvement to ensure all residents have equal access to clean water.

• Green and Parks Quality - The quality of green spaces is perceived as poor, limiting recreational opportunities for residents and impacting the city’s environmental health.
• Drinking Water Quality - Although drinking water quality is somewhat adequate, there remain concerns about accessibility and the need for improved water infrastructure.

Pollution Rankings

The pollution ranking for Jamaica is based on a combination of visitor perceptions and data from institutions like the World Health Organization. The Pollution Index estimates overall pollution levels by considering air and water pollution, garbage disposal, and other factors, with air pollution given the highest weight, while the Pollution Exp Scale uses an exponential function to highlight extremely polluted cities.

1. Kingston

Jamaica