Bangkok: The Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, Mr. Suchart Chomklin, has taken decisive action to address the ongoing peat swamp fire in Khuan Kreng, Nakhon Si Thammarat province, by mobilizing ground forces and aircraft. Mobile stations have been deployed to monitor PM2.5 levels after the fire's smoke started affecting nearby areas. The public has been advised to limit outdoor activities and take precautions for their health.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Suchart Chomklin has directed relevant agencies to coordinate efforts urgently to control the forest fire in the Khuan Kreng peat swamp. Helicopters have been deployed for aerial surveys and to assist in fire control, while the Pollution Control Department (PCD) has been tasked with monitoring air quality by deploying mobile stations to track PM2.5 levels and issuing timely public warnings.
The peat swamp fire, which has been burning since August 13th in Chawuat District, has been exacerbated by hot weather, dry conditions, and strong winds, resulting in smoke covering some areas. Local agencies are actively working to control and extinguish the fire. Mr. Nikorn Sirirojananont, Director-General of the Department of Forestry, reported that the Nakhon Si Thammarat Forest Fire Control Center has been instructed to closely monitor the situation and collaborate with relevant agencies to prevent the fire's spread, particularly near Ban Samet Ngam in the Thale Noi Wildlife Sanctuary.
Efforts to contain the blaze include the use of water cannons and the creation of firebreaks, with officials closely monitoring weather conditions and wind direction. Additional personnel, equipment, and resources are being prepared to quickly manage the situation and prevent further spread of the fire.
Dr. Surin Vorakithamrong, Director-General of the Pollution Control Department, stated that officers and mobile air quality monitoring stations have been dispatched to areas affected by the smoke to monitor PM2.5 levels and air pollution. The department is working closely with local agencies to ensure public safety. If harmful air quality levels are detected, the public will be promptly informed and given advice.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed about air quality updates and heed warnings from government agencies. Those in areas with thick smoke or the smell of smoke should avoid outdoor activities, stay indoors, and wear dust masks if necessary. Vulnerable groups, including young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with respiratory illnesses or other health conditions, should take extra precautions and be vigilant for any adverse health symptoms.