Factories to monitor emissions

Up to 600 factories nationwide are being ordered to closely monitor their emissions to better curb air pollutants as the Industry Ministry steps up efforts to cope with PM2.5 ultra-fine dust, now blanketing most parts of Bangkok.

The mandatory requirement, with a maximum fine of 200,000 baht for violators, will be enforced under a new ministerial law expected to take effect next year, according to the ministry.

It replaces the existing 2001 law that is considered outdated as it covers only large industrial estates in some provinces.

The new law will be applied to all factories countrywide, including those in Bangkok, Samut Sakhon and Samut Prakan, though 600 factories are priorities and ordered to…