BANGKOK, Thailand – Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Suchart Chomklin has intensified efforts to address forest fires and haze in the North as pollution continues to affect public health and the environment.
Authorities have identified five high-risk forest clusters across nine provinces, including Chiang Mai, Mae Hong Son, and Nan, prompting expanded operations and closer coordination among agencies to improve control efforts.
Permanent Secretary Raweewan Bhuridej has been tasked with establishing a forward operations center in the North to serve as a central hub for command, coordination, and real-time monitoring. The center will integrate personnel across sectors, supported by helicopters and drone surveillance in high-risk areas.
Field operations remain active, with aerial missions in Mae Hong Son conducting water-dropping flights to contain fires, while ground teams increase patrols, enforce anti-burning laws, and carry out dust control measures in urban areas as efforts continue to reduce pollution and protect public health. (NNT)
