BANGKOK, Oct 1 (TNA) – The government has prepared
three major measures to contain PM2.5 particulate matter to stop tiny dust
emissions from the sources such as burning of farm waste.
Interior Minister, Gen.Anupong Paochinda said action
plans will be implemented by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment
and the Department of Pollution Control to curb dust, reduce dust from its
source and increase efficiency in implementation of anti-pollution measures.
Gen. Anupong said people also have to help reduce particulate
matter emissions from individuals’ diesel-powered cars and agencies concerned
have to strictly ban the use of vehicles, which cause air pollution.
If the situation gets worse, the law on building
construction control and traffic will be strictly enforced, he said.
In yesterday’s meeting with provincial governors on
Monday, the interior minister said he instructed governors to prepare measures
to handle open burning of farm waste, especially in sugar cane and corn plantations
in the harvest season this November.
Farm waste will be used to make charcoal or compost instead
to prevent air pollution from burning.
Meanwhile, the public health ministry has opened air
pollution clinics at hospitals under the Department of Medical Services,
starting today after PM 2.5 particular matter level rose to unhealthy levels in
many areas in Bangkok.
The
meteorological department forecast more rain in the upper part of the country
including Bangkok from today to Oct 6.
About
40-60 per cent of the capital is expected to see rainfall
this week and it could alleviate the ultra-fine dust problem, said the
department’s deputy director-general, Kornrawee Sitthichivapak. (TNA)
