Chiang mai: The government successfully used satellite technology to control and extinguish the Mae Taeng forest fire.
According to Thai News Agency, the government is implementing satellite technology to combat wildfires, which facilitated a rapid response and successful control of a fire in the Mae Taeng district. The area is situated deep within the forest, presenting access challenges.
Today, Ms. Lalida Periswiwatana, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, announced the government's intensified efforts under Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul's leadership to tackle wildfires. The strategy emphasizes the use of advanced technology, particularly satellite-based hotspot monitoring systems, for prompt detection and control.
In a recent operation, Mr. Suchart Chomklin, Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, directed the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation to dispatch officers to manage a forest fire in Sri Lanna National Park, Mae Taeng District. This followed reports of nine hotspots detected by the Suomi NPP satellite (VIIRS system) at 1:43 AM.
The fire's location in a "deep forest" posed significant access difficulties. Officials undertook a trek and strategic planning before reaching the site, commencing firefighting operations at 1:10 PM. The situation was controlled by 4:00 PM, with about 70 rai of dry dipterocarp and mixed deciduous forest affected.
Following prompt directives, 24 officers from various units, including park rangers and patrol teams, combined their efforts to execute the operation effectively, despite challenging terrain that complicated access.
Ms. Lalida highlighted that satellite data enables officials to 'see first, arrive quickly, and control rapidly,' even in remote areas. This capability significantly reduces the risk of extensive wildfires and represents a crucial component of modern wildfire management.
Initial findings indicate that the fire resulted from human activity, specifically individuals entering the area to gather forest products. The government has directed all agencies to heighten vigilance, enforce laws rigorously, and educate the public in the affected regions.
Ms. Lalida emphasized, "The government prioritizes technology to enhance field operations, making wildfire suppression more efficient, even in hard-to-reach areas, reducing environmental impact, and protecting public health, particularly amid the PM 2.5 crisis."
The government urges public cooperation to refrain from burning and to engage in monitoring efforts to sustainably reduce wildfires and air pollution over the long term.