Government apologises for Bangkok air pollution and smog

The Government has conceded to Bangkok citizens about the air pollution that continues to disrupt lives and threaten their health.

“The government apologises for the inconvenience caused by the poor air quality and would like to thank everybody for support and cooperation,” said the PM yesterday.

The blue sky typical of this time of year is hidden beyond a grey-yellow haze that could have serious long-term effects on health. The amount of harmful PM2.5 dust particles in the air has exceeded the safe limit in the capital and adjacent provinces almost daily since late December.

However, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration and relevant authorities have taken some action to ease the problem in areas under heavy smog. They have been trying to crack down on vehicles emitting black fumes and are becoming strict with people burning fires outdoors.

Officials have also started keeping a close watch on industrial plants, ensuring there are no toxic fumes coming out of their chimneys. Roads are being regularly hosed down and water is being sprayed in the air in the vague hope of bringing down the dust particles.

The PM is calling on owners of diesel-run vehicles to only use their cars in Greater Bangkok when it is absolutely necessary. He said the air pollution problem would be around into next week.

“If possible, avoid using them until the smog eases,” he advised as he agreed that the main cause of the haze could be put down to incomplete engine combustion.

“As a long-term solution, we will improve the integrated public-transportation system, fuel quality and exhaust fume standards. We will have more petrol stations offering environmentally-friendly choices and start promoting hybrid or electric vehicles,” the premier said.

In the meantime, operations to fight smog continued in several parts of Greater Bangkok. On Friday morning, four drones took off from Bangkok City Hall to join three fire engines in the latest battle against health-threatening haze. Water is also being sprayed from the high floors of tall buildings.

Read The Thaiger editorial about these attempts to mitigate Bangkok’s smog HERE.

Today, a fleet of small planes mustered by the BMA and Bangkok Aviation Centre will also spray water along Rama II Road in Samut Sakhon.

Army chief General Apirach Kongsompong said his forces have also actively responded to the government’s policy on fighting the pollution.

“People should help too. Don’t just blame the government. It’s everybody’s duty,” he said.

SOURCE: The Nation