Bangkok and the neighboring province of Samut Prakan are grappling with dangerously high levels of PM2.5 particulate matter, prompting health warnings and urgent calls for action. Authorities are urging residents to take precautions as air quality in both areas deteriorates to hazardous levels.
Cloud seeding to be started to ease air pollution in Bangkok
On Friday, January 26, 2025, air pollution levels in Bangkok reached a critical point, forcing the closure of over 350 schools, marking the highest number of school closures due to air quality concerns in the past five years.
PM2.5 concentrations in parts of Bangkok and Samut Prakan have exceeded 88.4µg/m³, far surpassing the World Health Organization’s (WHO) safe limit of 15 µg/m³. Central Bangkok districts such as Din Daeng, Chatuchak, and Rama IV Road are among the worst-hit areas.
Industrial zones in Bang Phli and Phra Pradaeng are experiencing PM2.5 levels above 180 µg/m³, attributed to emissions from factories and vehicles. Bangkok’s notorious traffic congestion remains a major contributor, with millions of vehicles releasing harmful particulates daily.
Thai PM urged urgent measures to fight PM2.5, including free public transport (25-31 Jan), stricter construction & vehicle checks, schools in Bangkok closed, health teams deployed, & farmers with burning history barred from aid plans. A “clean” Chinese New Year is also promoted. pic.twitter.com/kLqOPV9INd
— PR Thai Government (@prdthailand) January 25, 2025
Samut Prakan, home to a significant number of factories, is heavily affected by emissions from manufacturing plants. A lack of wind and high atmospheric pressure during the cool season traps pollutants, exacerbating air quality issues. Agricultural burning in surrounding provinces has further contributed to the increase in PM2.5 levels.
The Thai Ministry of Public Health has warned of potential health risks, particularly for vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory or cardiovascular conditions.
The closure of over 350 schools in Bangkok highlights the severity of the ongoing air pollution crisis, which poses significant health risks and disrupts daily life. While immediate measures are being taken to address the hazardous air quality, the situation underscores the urgent need for long-term solutions to combat pollution and protect public health.
City Hall Urges Work-from-Home Measures Amid Severe Pollution in Bangkok
Further updates on air quality levels and government initiatives are expected in the coming days.
-Thailand News (TN)
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