Bangkok (VNA) – Thai officials on October 20
pledged to take action to address a spike in air pollution that came before the
normal peak of seasonal haze.
The commitment was
made in the context that the capital
Bangkok being named among the world’s 10 most polluted cities as PM2.5 soared
to 48 μg/m3, according to IQAir, a Swiss-based air quality
technology company.
The Pollution Control Department (PCD) under the Thai
Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment said PM2.5 have increased beyond
the safe level of 37.5μg/m3 in most areas in Bangkok, starting to affect people’s
health. The department also warned that high levels of PM2.5 will last until October 28 in the
capital.
Meanwhile, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has
advised people in areas with high pollution levels to reduce outdoor activities
and wear protective masks when necessary. Anyone experiencing symptoms such as
cough, difficulty breathing, eye irritation, nausea or fatigue should consult a
doctor.
In a statement on October 20, Thai authorities stated that
air quality and safety are important priorities and that the country will strengthen
measures to prevent PM2.5, such as restricting areas that people can burn
crops, establish regulations between the public and private sectors and negotiate with relevant industries on transnational pollution./.
VNA
