Bangkok: PM2.5 levels remain above standards in several provinces. The Pollution Control Department is mobilizing monitoring vehicles and assessing response strategies. Minister Suchart ordered the Pollution Control Department to deploy mobile air quality monitoring units to northern Thailand after PM2.5 levels exceeded standards in 42 provinces nationwide. The highest levels were concentrated in the North, with Chiang Mai exceeding 300 micrograms per cubic meter, followed by Mae Hong Son and Chiang Rai, reflecting the continued critical situation.
According to Thai News Agency, the Air Pollution Control Communication Center of the Pollution Control Department (PCD) reports that the affected areas cover parts of Bangkok and 41 other provinces, including Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai, Nan, Mae Hong Son, and others. Northern Thailand is facing a severe air pollution crisis, with particulate matter levels ranging from 50.1 to 314.3 micrograms per cubic meter. In the Northeast region, air quality levels are between 32.8 to 147.5 micrograms per cubic meter. The central and western regions are experiencing impacts in some areas, while Bangkok and surrounding areas have exceeded standard levels in three areas. The southern region, however, continues to maintain good air quality.
The Pollution Control Department advises the public to reduce outdoor activities and wear protective equipment. Vulnerable groups are urged to avoid outdoor activities in red zones, and seek medical attention if unusual symptoms occur. The air pollution outlook over the next seven days shows a declining trend in Bangkok, the Central, and Eastern regions, while the 17 northern provinces and the northeastern region tend to show an increasing trend at certain times. The southern region continues to perform well.
Mr. Suchart Chomklin, Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, has instructed the PCD to urgently mobilize mobile air quality monitoring units and experts to the northern region to monitor the situation and protect public health. Mr. Surin Worakitthamrong, Director-General of the PCD, stated that the department has deployed equipment and personnel and integrated its work with local agencies. They are using mobile air quality monitoring vehicles that meet US EPA standards for accurate analysis of air mass movement trends.
The PCD stated that the dust problem in northern Thailand stems from domestic sources and transboundary haze. They have coordinated with neighboring countries and received cooperation. The PCD reiterated its request for public cooperation in the 17 northern provinces to refrain from burning activities and wear protective masks to reduce dust accumulation and prevent the situation from worsening. The PCD confirmed it will closely monitor the situation continuously.