TAK, March 12 (TNA) – Forest fires on both sides of the
Thai-Myanmar border created hazardous smoke haze in border areas of Tak
province and those in the neighbouring country.
The air pollution returned to five border districts of Tak
province this morning after relief in the past two weeks. There were reports on
forest fires in several districts from late last night to this morning.
Fire fighters from all districts of Tak were mobilised to
control the blaze on mountainous terrains. The officials had to carry water
pails on their backs while climbing on trails to cope with forest fires
throughout last night. Local residents had to wear face masks in the hot
weather while visibility was low on local roads.
In Mae Sot district of Tak, the level of particulate matter
2.5 micrometers (PM2.5) and less in diameter reached 76 micrograms per cubic
meter of air in the past 24 hours. PM10 dust measured 127mcg. The air quality
index soared to 164 points. Field burning and forest fires on both sides of the
border were blamed.
Local officials tried to solve the problem by spraying water
in the air but that could not ease the air pollution because of ongoing forest
fires. (TNA)
