Bangkok: Bangkok Governor Chatchart Sittipunt has confirmed that air pollution originating from northern Thailand has not yet affected the city's air quality. This is due to a change in wind direction, but authorities are maintaining continuous monitoring of the situation.

According to Thai News Agency, Governor Chatchart addressed the media concerning the PM2.5 particulate matter levels, noting that wind direction plays a crucial role in the current air quality. Presently, during the summer season, winds are blowing from the south, originating from the Gulf of Thailand, and moving northward. As a result, dust from northern Thailand has not impacted Bangkok. However, the governor emphasized the need for ongoing vigilance as wind patterns could change.

Bangkok has implemented advanced air quality monitoring stations, known as Super Stations, with support from China. These stations, currently installed at Kasetsart University, provide real-time analysis to determine the dust sources, whether from combustion or vehicle emissions. This technological advancement aims to improve dust management in the city.

The air pollution situation has shown improvement this year, with a 50% reduction in days exceeding standard pollution levels. This progress is attributed to various initiatives, including changes in vehicle oil and filters, stricter black smoke emission standards, increased enforcement against polluting vehicles, and collaborative efforts with farmers around Bangkok to reduce agricultural burning.

Governor Chatchart expressed confidence in the continued cooperation of all sectors to alleviate the dust situation in the long term. He also extended his support to the northern regions currently dealing with air pollution challenges.

On the matter of the Clean Air Act, the governor highlighted its importance, stating that air pollution poses an economic issue. Low-income individuals often rely on older vehicles and agricultural burning due to cost constraints. The Clean Air Act would help by establishing a supporting fund and requiring polluters to compensate for emissions. Additionally, it would empower local authorities to manage air quality issues more effectively.