Bangkok: The Pollution Control Department (PCD) has unveiled Thailand’s first Air Pollution Resolution Communication Center (APCC) to address the city’s growing air quality issues by issuing timely warnings through three dedicated channels.
According to Thai News Agency, the opening ceremony was attended by Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt, who praised the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment for their proactive approach in tackling the dust problem. The event was presided over by Mr. Suchart Chomklin, Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, alongside key figures such as Mr. Surin Worakittamrong, Director-General of the PCD, and Mr. Pornprom Vikitset, Advisor to the Governor of Bangkok. The ceremony also saw participation from Bangkok executives, Ministry officials, and various stakeholders committed to improving air quality in the region.
Governor Chadchart highlighted the significant reduction in dusty days in November, which decreased by 23% compared to the previous year, attributing the success to early intervention. The APCC is designed to perform three main functions: informing the public about current air quality and protective measures, providing a seven-day air quality forecast, and identifying areas susceptible to burning activities like forest and agricultural fires for targeted action. The Governor emphasized the importance of integration and cooperation to enhance air quality, drawing on successful global examples.
The PM2.5 dust issue in Bangkok is primarily driven by three factors: stagnant air conditions, vehicular emissions, and outdoor burning activities. While improvements are anticipated in vehicular emissions due to stricter black smoke standards, the focus on outdoor burning requires a balanced approach, particularly in supporting farmers to adopt sustainable practices. Governor Chadchart underscored the need for intensified efforts, especially during the peak pollution months of January and February.
Mr. Suchart elaborated on the APCC’s role as the nation’s central hub for dust communication, integrating data and expertise from various sectors, including the Meteorological Department, Government Sector Development Agency, and private partners like LINE Company and Advanced Info Service Public Company Limited. The center employs a comprehensive model for forecasting air quality up to a week in advance and disseminates daily dust level updates via social media.
Thailand’s enhanced dust warning system now operates through three channels: the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation’s Cell Broadcast system, Line Alert through the LINE application, and SMS Alerts in collaboration with Advanced Info Service. These measures aim to help residents better prepare and adapt their daily activities in response to air quality fluctuations.