BANGKOK, Feb 25 (TNA) – The Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department reported the air quality stays at unhealthy levels in parts of seven northern provinces.
The PM2.5 particulate matter, measured in the past 24 hours on average surpassed the safety standard at 50 microgrammes per cubic metre (µg/m³) of air to around 65-96 µg/m³ in parts of seven provinces, said Chayaphon Thitisak, the department’s Director-General.
The Air Quality Index (AQI) exceeded the country’s AQI safety limit at 100 to hover around 101-149 in those provinces, including Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai, Mae Hong Son, Nan, Phrae, Phayao and Lampang.
The department cooperated with provincial authorities to tackle forest fires and smog pollution.
Forest fire-monitoring and fighting operations are prepared. Officials have closely monitored air quality and strictly controlled burning of agricultural waste. A ban on burning is imposed in particular zones and firebreaks have been created in forested areas.
The authorities suggest farmers to adopt ploughing crop residues into the soil instead of burning.
Local residents in haze-hit areas are warned to wear masks to protect themselves and motorists should be cautious while driving through low visibility areas. (TNA)
