BANGKOK, Thailand – Authorities in northern Thailand have suspended aerial firefighting operations in Sri Lanna National Park after poor visibility prevented a KA-32 helicopter from conducting water-dropping missions.
The aircraft, deployed by the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, had been scheduled to support wildfire control efforts in Mae Taeng district, Chiang Mai province. Limited visibility posed risks to both the crew and the operation, leading officials to halt the mission.
In response, military units across 17 northern provinces have been ordered to step up ground operations. Water trucks and fire engines are being deployed in urban areas to spray water and reduce airborne dust affecting local communities.
Forest fires, haze, and fine particulate pollution continue to worsen across the region. High-pressure weather conditions have led to a buildup of dense haze, with pollution levels exceeding safety limits and raising concerns over public health. (NNT)
