Chiang Mai court demands PM2.5 emergency plan

The Administrative Court in Chiang Mai demanded Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and the National Environment Board craft an emergency plan within the next 90 days.

This decisive move comes as a response to the persistent threat of PM2.5 pollution plaguing northern provinces and signals a watershed moment for civil society in the region.

The court’s verdict is a resounding call for action, forcing the government’s hand to confront the long-standing PM2.5 crisis that has jeopardised the health of northern residents for years. The ruling, a striking win for the people, propels the urgency for both short- and long-term strategies to combat the perilous pollution levels.

Court documents reveal damning evidence from state agencies, including the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency and the Pollution Control Department. The…