BANGKOK, Thailand – Deputy Prime Minister Sophon Saram emphasized the importance of closely monitoring and following up on preparedness efforts to address the fine particulate matter (PM 2.5) problem. He urged relevant agencies to strictly enforce measures preventing open burning, detect vehicles emitting exhaust fumes, and control dust in large-scale construction areas. He also highlighted the need to provide timely warnings, disseminate information, and raise public awareness regarding the situation, related measures, and penalties for violations.
The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) will begin issuing PM 2.5 alerts through both official and unofficial communication channels, including the “Thai Disaster Alert” mobile application, cell broadcast notifications, and its social media platforms. If the 24-hour average PM 2.5 concentrations exceed 75.1 micrograms per cubic meter—a level that can impact health—the DDPM will immediately send alerts to the public in risk areas.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, in collaboration with the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration and various public and private organizations, has launched the “Air Pollution Resolution Communication Center.” The center serves as a key mechanism for integrating air quality data and providing real-time risk communications to the public.
Currently, the system for issuing high dust-level alerts has been expanded across three channels to ensure comprehensive public communication:
- Mobile phone “Cell Broadcast” alerts;
- Notifications via “@linealert”;
- SMS alerts in at-risk areas.
These measures aim to ensure comprehensive communication to the public, so that all segments of the population receive timely and accurate information. (PRD)
