Thai schools to shift lessons online amid severe air pollution threat
Schools in Thailand may transition to online classes if fine dust pollution reaches critical levels, according to the Thai Education Ministry. Teachers are advised to monitor students’ health as PM2.5 haze pollution affects several provinces, including Bangkok.
Siripong Angkasakulkiat from the Education Ministry stated yesterday, January 14, that Minister Permpoon Chidchob urged the creation of appropriate plans to organise classes in schools impacted by fine dust and cold weather.
Siripong noted that low temperatures and wind conditions tend to trap fine dust particles, increasing PM2.5 levels in many areas, which significantly affects schools.
The surge in fine dust particles raises the risk of respiratory issues among children, with symptoms including clogged nostrils, red eyes, and fever. Additional symptoms such as sleeplessness and snoring can hinder students’ learning abilities.
Schools are instructed to limit outdoor activities to reduce exposure to air pollution. Activities to be halted include morning assemblies, outdoor sports, and scout training. Schools experiencing high PM2.5 levels should conduct online classes or make necessary arrangements to minimise exposure.
Some schools have already taken steps to mitigate fine dust exposure by installing dust control equipment, ventilation fans, and water sprays, as well as educating students about the health risks posed by haze.
“These initiatives allow students to reach their full learning potential in a safer environment during the pollution crisis.”
The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA)’s air quality monitoring centre, AirBKK, reported that 70 areas in the capital exceeded the 37.5 microgrammes per cubic metre (µg/m³) safety threshold yesterday.
Suchatchavee Suwansawas, Deputy Democrat Party leader, suggested the BMA implement a low emission zone (LEZ) in 16 inner-city districts to tackle air pollution. His proposal covers 130 square kilometres, including Phra Nakhon, Pomprap Sattruphai, Pathumwan, Samphanthawong, Dusit, Ratchathewi, Phaya Thai, Sathon, Bang Rak, and Yannawa districts, reported Bangkok Post.
In a Facebook post, Suchatchavee stated that this measure would lead to cleaner air. The policy would charge drivers of fossil-fuel vehicles to enter the zone, exempting electric vehicle drivers.
Latest Thailand News
