Thailand faces a severe air pollution crisis, particularly in Bangkok, which ranks as one of the most polluted cities globally. The government has implemented measures utilizing aircraft to disperse water over polluted regions, but these methods remain largely unproven against the persistent problem of hazardous emissions. Contributory factors include agricultural burning and vehicular pollution, necessitating stringent policies and enforcement to protect public health.
Thailand is currently grappling with a severe air pollution crisis exacerbated by seasonal dry conditions. Recent reports indicate that Bangkok ranked as the fourth most polluted city globally, prompting the closure of 352 schools across 31 districts. Parents are compelled to equip their children with masks for school, while health advisories warn of “Pollution days” affecting outdoor activities due to hazardous air quality levels, often reading as “very unhealthy”. This escalating pollution problem is linked to alarming health statistics, including UNICEF’s report that attributes the deaths of 100 children under five daily to air pollution in Southeast Asia.
In an attempt to mitigate this issue, the Thai government has initiated a program utilizing aircraft colloquially referred to as “rainmakers”. These planes disperse water over polluted areas, hoping to cool the air and disperse particulate matter. However, experts caution that this method remains unproven, as it primarily addresses symptoms rather than the root causes of pollution, particularly concerning PM2.5 levels, which are dangerously elevated.
Contributors to this pollution crisis include slash-and-burn agricultural practices, driven by economic necessity and corporate demands. Farmers resort to this method as a low-cost way to clear land for cash crops, particularly rice, sugar cane, and corn. Furthermore, heavy traffic pollution, compounded by contributions from transboundary haze due to industrial activities in neighboring countries, complicates the situation.
Efforts to improve air quality have been hindered by a lack of enforcement of existing regulations against agricultural burning. Although the Thai government has attempted to counter the traffic issue by promoting free public transport, the continued prevalence of pollution poses a substantial public health risk. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has acknowledged the effectiveness of some measures but indicates a need for further action.
To achieve significant improvements in air quality, Thailand will need to strengthen policy enforcement and hold agricultural companies accountable. While international comparisons show some nations, such as China and Singapore, successfully tackling their pollution issues, Thailand must adopt a more integrated and rigorous approach to combat this ongoing environmental and public health crisis.
Air pollution in Thailand, particularly during the dry season, represents a chronic and escalating public health crisis. The recent prevalence of hazardous smog levels has garnered significant attention, especially following alarming statistics linking air pollution to high infant mortality rates in Southeast Asia. The ongoing challenges include agricultural practices, traffic emissions, and international contributions to haze. Addressing this multifaceted issue requires committed action from governmental authorities and regional cooperation.
The escalation of air pollution in Thailand, marked by hazardous levels and associated health risks, necessitates urgent action at multiple levels. While innovative methods like the “rainmaker” aircraft provide temporary relief, they are insufficient to solve the underlying issues. Comprehensive strategies that include stronger regulations, accountability for agricultural practices, and enhanced public transport are essential. The situation challenges Thailand to adopt more robust policies to safeguard public health and ensure clean air as a fundamental right.
Original Source: www.moreradio.online
