Bangkok: The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment expressed concern over the PM 2.5 dust problem, emphasizing that the Pollution Control Department must urgently address the source of the pollution.
According to Thai News Agency, the Permanent Secretary has directed the Pollution Control Department to tackle the PM2.5 problem at its roots, following reports of air quality exceeding standard levels in several provinces. The department is set to implement three urgent projects by 2026 to address the issue. Currently, PM2.5 levels have exceeded standards in 26 provinces, with forecasts indicating continued high levels in upper Thailand, necessitating close monitoring in several areas.
Ms. Rawiwan Phuridej, the Permanent Secretary, highlighted her concerns over the sustained high levels of PM2.5 particulates exceeding standard levels across many parts of the country. She has instructed Mr. Surin Worakitthamrong, Director-General of the Pollution Control Department, to expedite measures for dust reduction at its source. Key measures include enhancing responses to wildfires, haze, and PM2.5 pollution, increasing control over particulate emissions from diesel vehicles in Bangkok, and creating economic incentives to reduce agricultural burning. These initiatives are expected to deliver quick results by 2026.
The Air Pollution Control Communication Center reported that on January 27, 2026, PM2.5 levels exceeded the standard in 26 provinces, including Bangkok, Pathum Thani, Nonthaburi, and Samut Prakan, among others. Levels ranged from 10.4 to 91.8 micrograms per cubic meter, with some areas already impacting health.
Forecasts from January 28th to February 3rd, 2026, suggest that PM2.5 levels will remain high, particularly in Bangkok and surrounding provinces, as well as central, western, northern, northeastern, and eastern regions. Meanwhile, air quality in the southern region remains good.
Health advisories recommend that the general public take precautions, such as avoiding outdoor activities during high pollution periods and wearing face masks. Vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and those with health conditions, are advised to minimize outdoor exposure and seek medical advice if they experience any symptoms like coughing or difficulty breathing. This is crucial in "health-affecting" or "red zones," where outdoor activities should be entirely avoided.