BANGKOK, Jan 23 (TNA) – A leading school in central
Bangkok suspends all classes for three days after over 135 students fall ill
related to dust pollution that has blanketed the capital city.
The air pollution in Bangkok worsened on Tuesday when PM2.5
particles rose above safety level of 50 micrograms per cubic meter of air at
many locations.
Chulalongkorn University Demonstration School announced a
three-day suspension starting on Wednesday after 135 students suffered flu-like
symptoms believed to be caused by the hazardous particles.
A group of teachers and school staff cleaned up classrooms
and teaching materials Wednesday morning.
School Director Thinakorn Buapul said despite health
measures the number of students with symptoms rose from 88 on Monday to 135 on
Tuesday, almost 10 percent of the total pupils.
The school planned to provide health checks and vaccinations
for students when classes resumed on Monday, he said.
Meanwhile, Bangkok city’s environment office reported that
air quality improved on Wednesday but PM2.5 levels remained over safety limit
in eight areas.
Overall, the fine dust levels ranged from 36-64 microgram
per cubic meters. Thanks to stronger winds on Wednesday, the air pollution
situation has improved.
Nevertheless, related state agencies have rolled out
measures to tackle the problem including strictly enforcing smog regulations
and intensifying rain-making operations. (TNA)
