Government Strengthens Measures to Combat Air Pollution

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Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to addressing Thailand’s air pollution crisis, emphasizing both domestic and regional strategies to combat hazardous PM2.5 levels. Speaking on the inaugural episode of Empowering Thais with PM Paetongtarn, she highlighted the urgency of ASEAN-wide cooperation, noting that air pollution does not respect national borders and spreads through wind patterns.

As part of efforts to ease the financial burden on consumers, the Ministry of Commerce has proposed classifying air purifiers and vacuum cleaners as controlled goods. If approved by the Cabinet, the measure would require sellers to disclose production and import costs, preventing price inflation amid rising demand and ensuring access to essential air filtration devices.

Authorities are ramping up enforcement against pollution sources. The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation has launched a nationwide crackdown on open burning, with local officials tasked with educating households on the dangers of illegal fires. Those caught violating regulations will face legal consequences. Meanwhile, traffic police and environmental agencies are targeting high-emission vehicles, mandating repairs within 15 days to avoid deregistration.

To reduce transboundary pollution, the government is tightening regulations on agricultural imports, particularly animal feed corn, which contributes to seasonal haze. Importers will need to meet stricter certification and traceability requirements to ensure supplies do not come from farming regions reliant on slash-and-burn practices. Additionally, Thailand is working with Myanmar, Laos, and Cambodia to identify sustainable suppliers and implement trade policies that discourage environmentally harmful practices.

The Ministry of Public Health has advised the public to take precautions in high-pollution areas, including modifying outdoor exercise routines. While N95 masks offer effective protection, health officials warn they may restrict airflow during physical activity.

Officials from various agencies are coordinating efforts to enforce these measures and mitigate the impact of air pollution on public health and the environment.

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