Elevated PM2.5 levels in Bangkok prompt new measures

Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Chalermchai Sri-on has issued a warning over elevated PM2,5 dust levels in Bangkok and surrounding provinces from October 24 to 27, 2024.

At the same time, the ministry presented the new Wildfire, Smog and Dust Management Plan for 2025, which aims to tackle air pollution at national, regional and local levels. The plan includes various measures and strategies to improve air quality and reduce the impact of pollution.

The main measures are as follows:

1. Risk maps and fire management: The plan includes developing detailed risk maps and operational strategies for areas prone to wildfires. This includes fire prevention measures and management of combustible materials in forests.
2. Forest fire management: Checkpoints, surveillance stations and intervention teams will be set up in protected areas and national forests. In addition, no-burn methods will be promoted to prevent forest fires.
3. Agricultural fire management: The ministry will register farmers and monitor those who use fire for agricultural purposes. There will be stricter controls, especially on the burning of sugarcane, and violations will be punished. Farmers who switch to non-burning techniques will be supported.
4. Urban dust control: Measures will be taken to limit the use of large trucks, promote public transport and accelerate the transition to electric buses. There will also be stricter monitoring of vehicles and factories with high emissions.
5. Cross-border smoke management: Non-burning agricultural practices are promoted and cooperation is established with neighbouring countries to control cross-border smoke during the haze season.
6. General management: Accelerating budget allocations, strengthening enforcement, and designating areas where PM2,5 problems occur as disaster zones. Health measures and work-from-home options are also being promoted.
7. Community Involvement: The public is encouraged to participate in the fight against air pollution. Volunteers, academic institutions and local communities have a role to play.

Minister Chalermchai stressed the importance of close cooperation between various government agencies to effectively tackle the smog situation, focusing on reducing emissions from vehicles, industrial sources and combustion activities. Public education, public health measures and work-from-home policies will be stepped up to keep the population well-informed and protected.

Finally, residents are urged to monitor PM2,5 levels via the Air4Thai website and app for the latest updates and alerts.