Bangkok: Satellites have detected heavy dust concentrations across several ASEAN countries, including Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, and Malaysia, with air quality indices (AQI) exceeding 190. In Thailand, strong winds expected in two days are anticipated to help disperse the dust. The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation has declared tomorrow (February 3) as a critical day for all nationwide units to enforce a 'No Burning' policy, with immediate arrests for violators.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Jirayu Huangsap, an advisor to the National Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Command (DDPM), reported that as of 7:00 a.m. on February 2, PM 2.5 dust levels in several regions had surpassed safety standards. The North reported values between 10.9-59.0 µg/m3 across 14 areas, while the Northeast showed 34.5-73.0 µg/m3. Central and Western regions recorded 27.5-81.4 µg/m3, and the East showed 34.7-72.5 µg/m3. The South exceeded standards in one area, with values ranging from 19.5-43.2 µg/m3. In Bangkok and its vicinity, pollution levels measured 39.6-71.7 micrograms per cubic meter.
The Department has urged the public to monitor their health and minimize outdoor activities, particularly in high dust level areas, known as red zones. People needing special care are advised to use personal protective equipment and consult a doctor if symptoms arise. Information on air quality can be accessed via Air4Thai.com, airbkk.com, and their respective applications.
The dust and smoke situation is expected to persist until Tuesday, February 4, due to a strong cold air mass reducing ventilation capacity. Improvements are anticipated with incoming winds from the North and South.
Satellite data has also shown an increase in hotspot values in ASEAN countries, mirroring the situation in Thailand, where stagnant winds have led to dust accumulation. As of 1:00 p.m. on February 2, AQI levels in several regional cities surpassed 190.
The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation has scheduled a nation-wide Kick Off activity at 10:00 a.m. on February 3 to promote the 'No Burning' campaign. Local mechanisms will be utilized to raise awareness and discourage burning practices for public health benefits. Law enforcement will be stringent against those who violate the ban.
Mr. Jirayu noted that the Pollution Control Department, in collaboration with the Traffic Police Division and the Department of Land Transport, is enhancing law enforcement measures under the Land Traffic Act and the National Environmental Quality Promotion and Conservation Act B.E. 2535. These measures aim to address PM 2.5 dust pollution by empowering officers to temporarily ban vehicles emitting excessive black smoke, requiring repairs within 15 days or face registration cancellation. Police are urged to strictly detain vehicles causing significant PM 2.5 emissions.