Toxic haze still soaring in the North

Air pollution in nine northern provinces remained critical yesterday with levels of toxic dust ten times over the government’s recommended safe level in some areas.

The Pollution Control Department reported that 16 air monitoring stations across the region had recorded levels of hazardous PM2.5 microdust ranging from 92 microgrammes per cubic metre (μg/m³) to 247 μg/m³ in their precincts.

While the PCD’s “safe” threshold for PM2.5 fine dust is set at 50μg/m³ and below, Chiang Mai’s Chiang Dao district recorded 247 μg/m³, Nan’s Chaloem Phra Kiat 242 μg/m³ and Chiang Rai’s tambon Wiang Phang Kham in Mae Sai District 189 μg/m³.

Furthermore, nine fairly critical areas and 12 stations also surpassed the safe standard for PM10.

In Chiang Mai, air pollution has continued to surge even though many bushfires in Doi Suthep-Pui National Park have been put out.

PM2.5 in three tambons in Mueang district, Chang Phueak, Si Phum and Suthep, was measured at 106, 101 and 80 μg/m³ respectively.

Meanwhile, the real worst air of the province surged to 502 μg/m³ in Samoeng district, or ten times the government limit, 375 μg/m³ in Wiang Haeng and 303 μg/m³ in Mae Taeng district.

Chiang Mai provincial governor Charoenrit Sanguansat thanked police, troops, national park officers, local leaders and civic groups for their tireless cooperation in continuing to fight bushfires

He said troops are still battling to prevent fires from spreading to the most sacred temple in Chiang Mai, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep.

He also cited the Thai Meteorological Department’s forecast that a tropical storm is expected to hit between today and Saturday, causing a welcome downpour and strong winds over the North, Northeast, East and Central region which he hoped would douse the flames and improve air quality.