BANGKOK, Jan 7 (TNA) – The authorities reported the
volume of the fine dust particles reached a level considered as having a
negative impact on health in 17 districts as of Tuesday morning, increased from
eight districts yesterday.
The levels of PM2.5 pollutants in the capital were
measured between 39-62 microgrammes per cubic metre (µg/m³) and 53 (µg/m³) on average, exceeding the safety
standard at 50 (µg/m³).
Meanwhile, Tuesday morning’s Air Quality Index (AQI)
in Bangkok was 156, according to the popular website airvisual.com. The AQI is
considered “unhealthy” when the level is above 150.
The Pollution Control Department yesterday convened a
meeting to follow up the action plans to curb dust particles as the Meteorological
Department forecast worsening situation from Jan 6-11.
High pressure system, covering the upper part of the
country has weakened, leading to calm wind in the morning. This condition will
make pollution more concentrated near the surface, said Deputy Director General of the PCD, Thalearngsak Petchsuwan, who chaired the meeting.
He said traffic congestion in the
capital after the New Year holiday is another factor that makes the level of
fine particulate matter rising over the safety standard. The poor air quality
is expected to last throughout this week.
The meeting was attended by officials from concerned
agencies such as the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, the Department of
Disease Control, the Highway Department, the Land Transport Department and the
Department of Industrial Works.
The Department of Pollution Control and agencies
concerned reviewed existing anti-dust measures and reinforce measures to handle
the dust situation and alleviate impacts on people.
Besides controlling pollution emissions from vehicles
by transport agencies, the Agriculture Ministry will find innovation for
farmers to avoid burning crop residue and public health agencies will issue
warning for local residents to protect themselves particularly vulnerable
groups with respiratory diseases and the elderly. (TNA)
