Bangkok: “Itthi” has unveiled a new initiative to tackle the severe PM 2.5 dust crisis plaguing Northern Thailand. The Royal Rainmaking and Agricultural Aviation Department is executing proactive measures, employing royal rainmaking techniques and dry ice sprinkling to mitigate the dust levels that have surpassed safety standards. The government has sanctioned a budget of 200 million baht for acquiring royal rainmaking equipment needed for the project.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Itthi Sirilathayakorn, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, has directed the Royal Rainmaking and Agricultural Aviation Department to urgently implement multiple strategies to address the PM 2.5 dust particle issue nationwide. The northern region, including Bangkok and its surrounding areas, has been critically affected. The burning of weeds and stubble for agricultural purposes has been identified as the primary cause of this environmental concern.

Mr. Itthi highlighted a shift in methodology from the past, where water droplets were sprayed to reduce PM 2.5 levels. The new approach involves the use of dry ice flakes, which require only a single aerial operation compared to the two flights needed for water droplets. This method not only enhances efficacy but also reduces costs. Sprinkling dry ice flakes induces atmospheric instability, allowing PM 2.5 particles to dissipate into the broader atmosphere without harming public health.

The Deputy Minister also announced the government’s approval of a 200 million baht budget to support the installation of formula 3 dry ice production machines at four key locations across Thailand: the Northern Rainmaking Operation Center in Tak Province, the Lower Northern Center in Phitsanulok Province, the Lower Northeastern Center in Buriram Province, and the Northeastern Center in Khon Kaen Province. This financial backing aims to enhance the effectiveness of PM 2.5 dust mitigation and reduce reliance on private sector dry ice supplies.

Mr. Rachen Silaraya, Deputy Director-General of the Royal Rainmaking and Agricultural Aviation Department, stated that the department has been actively executing the rainmaking operations, concentrating on critical areas such as Bangkok and the Upper North. These regions have been heavily impacted by dust and smoke. The department utilizes dry ice flakes to modify weather conditions, facilitating cloud formation and enhancing rain chances in targeted areas. Collaboration with agencies like the Aeronautical Radio of Thailand ensures the synchronization of flight routes with commercial aviation, maintaining safety and traffic flow.

Monitoring efforts have indicated a decline in PM 2.5 levels in certain areas, particularly Bangkok and Chiang Mai, following these operations. The Royal Rainmaking Department remains committed to continuing these efforts, aiming to manage the escalating dust situation and minimize its health implications for the public.