BANGKOK, Thailand – The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment and the Ministry of Interior have intensified coordinated efforts to address wildfires and haze in the northern region, resulting in clear improvements, including a sharp decline in hotspots in Chiang Mai province.
Natural Resources and Environment Minister Suchart Chomklin said operations have involved close coordination among government agencies, local authorities, the private sector, and communities, supported by strict law enforcement and active field operations led by provincial governors. Ground teams and aerial firefighting units have been deployed, with daily monitoring to ensure effective control.
Data from late March to early April shows improving conditions, including a drop in PM2.5 levels in key areas such as Chiang Dao district in Chiang Mai, where levels fell by more than half. Across 17 northern provinces, more than 32,000 hotspots were recorded over the period, with the overall trend declining steadily.
In Chiang Mai, hotspot numbers fell sharply over several days, reaching double digits by April 7. Authorities said weather conditions, including transboundary haze, remain a factor, though improved air circulation is expected to help disperse pollution. Officials are continuing strict measures and urging the public to avoid open burning and support monitoring efforts. (NNT)
