Bangkok chokes its way into world’s top 10 most polluted cities
Bangkok today landed among the world’s most polluted cities, ranking eighth in the latest IQAir report, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 141. The city’s air pollution has once again raised health concerns, especially for vulnerable groups.
The AQI scale categorises air quality as follows:
- 0-50 (Good)
- 51-100 (Moderate)
- 101-150 (Unhealthy for sensitive groups)
- 151-200 (Unhealthy)
- 201-300 (Very unhealthy)
- 301+ (Hazardous)
Top 10 Most Polluted Cities (March 20, 8am, IQAir)
- Kathmandu, Nepal – 188
- Delhi, India – 176
- Lahore, Pakistan – 156
- Algiers, Algeria – 155
- Hanoi, Vietnam – 155
- Dhaka, Bangladesh – 151
- Dubai, UAE – 143
- Bangkok, Thailand – 141
- Wuhan, China – 138
- Warsaw, Poland – 132
Bangkok wasn’t the only Thai location struggling with toxic air. Several provinces and districts recorded even worse air quality, with Samut Songkhram topping the national list at 163 AQI.
Thailand’s 10 Worst Air Quality Areas (March 20, 8am, IQAir)
- Samut Songkhram – 163
- Nakhon Pathom – 156
- Saraburi – 153
- Samut Sakhon – 149
- Phra Pradaeng, Samut Prakan – 146
- Bang Sao Thong, Samut Prakan – 146
- Nakhon Ratchasima – 143
- Bangkok – 141
- Phetchabun – 140
- Samut Prakan – 132
Air pollution levels are measured by six key pollutants: PM2.5, PM10, ozone, carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, and sulphur dioxide. The most concerning is PM2.5, the microscopic particles that can enter the lungs and bloodstream, increasing the risk of respiratory diseases, heart conditions, and other serious health issues, reported The Nation.
With pollution levels soaring, residents are advised to wear masks, avoid outdoor activities, and use air purifiers when possible. Officials have yet to announce concrete measures to combat the worsening air crisis, but for now, Bangkok remains trapped in a toxic haze.
The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) yesterday, March 19, issued a warning for summer storms across much of Thailand, with thunderstorms and rough seas expected in the Gulf of Thailand and Andaman Sea, while PM2.5 pollution continues to plague northern provinces.
A high-pressure system from China brought a 1 to 2°C temperature drop in upper Thailand, accompanied by strong winds and scattered thunderstorms.
Residents were advised to take precautions against sudden weather changes, while farmers should safeguard crops and livestock from potential damage.
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