The governor of Bangkok says up to 50,000 people will work from home if air pollution in the capital reaches the Red Level and remains there for 3 consecutive days.
Governor Chadchart Sittipunt met with senior administrators yesterday, January 15, to discuss the air pollution crisis. Air quality in the capital has been steadily worsening due to poor air circulation and ongoing burning in the countryside and neighbouring countries.
According to a Thai PBS World report, Chadchart has confirmed that between January 1 and 9 last year, only 525 air pollution hotspots were detected, compared to 1,089 this year – an increase of 107%.
The governor adds that the BMA is working with 9 car manufacturers to encourage drivers to maintain their engines and to change to Euro-5 grade petrol, which minimises harmful emissions.
All municipal schools will also have at least one “dust-free” room in which students can be accommodated at times when air quality is particularly bad. Chadchart adds that extra rooms are being built at the city’s kindergartens.
There are currently 8 air pollution clinics being operated by the BMA, including at Taksin, Central, Lat Krabang and Sirindhorn. Anyone struggling with health issues as a result of PM2.5 pollution can attend to seek healthcare advice and counselling. People can also get advice from the telemedicine application or via the 1646 hotline.
SOURCE: Thai PBS World
