Northern Thailand Forest Fires Intensify Haze and Air Pollution; Prime Minister Plans Long-Term Countermeasures
Forest fires in northern Thailand are worsening haze and PM2.5 air pollution. Prime Minister Anutin visited Chiang Mai to inspect the situation and will convene a cross-ministerial meeting to develop long-term countermeasures, including enhancing agricultural import regulations, increasing firefighting support, and providing medical aid.
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- 📰 Published: April 20, 2026 at 16:41
- 🔍 Collected: April 20, 2026 at 17:01 (20 min after Published)
- 🤖 AI Analyzed: April 20, 2026 at 17:37 (35 min after Collected)
Forest fires continuing to rage in northern Thailand have led to severe haze and PM2.5 air pollution. Prime Minister Anutin visited Chiang Mai today to inspect the ongoing forest fires, haze, and PM2.5 air pollution issues plaguing northern Thailand. The Prime Minister's Office stated that Anutin will hold a meeting with heads of various ministries, including the Ministry of Commerce, Ministry of Environment, Ministry of Health, and Ministry of Defense, to formulate response measures and establish long-term and sustainable solutions.
Forest fires in Thailand's northern Chiang Mai province continue to spread. Many fires are occurring in high-altitude mountainous areas, making them difficult for firefighters to reach on foot and requiring aerial support for extinguishment. These widespread wildfires are considered the main cause of the intensified PM2.5 air pollution in Chiang Mai and other areas.
The Thai government's Public Relations Department issued a press release today stating that Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, after receiving a briefing on the FY2027 budget this morning, will co-chair a disaster prevention and mitigation strategy meeting with ministry heads before departing for Chiang Mai to inspect the situation.
The Thai government indicated that Anutin's visit to Chiang Mai will focus on four main aspects: Trade and Agriculture, by strengthening the prohibition of agricultural product imports involving open burning and enhancing supervision of agricultural activities in high-altitude areas; Fire Control, by increasing logistical and financial support for frontline firefighting teams; and Medical Assistance, by strengthening medical aid and protective measures for residents severely affected by air pollution.
Previously, Thai Public Television (Thai PBS) reported on the 19th that the Forest Fire Control Action Center of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation reported 647 fire points in 17 northern provinces that day, with 133 points alone in the Chiang Mai area. Additionally, a village chief fell into a coma due to smoke inhalation while participating in firefighting efforts and has been sent to the hospital for treatment.
Meanwhile, Thai Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, Yodchanan Wongsawat, visited Chiang Mai on the 18th to participate in a pilot project for 'cleanrooms' developed by Chiang Mai University. The Bangkok Post reported that this low-cost system costs approximately 3,600 Thai baht (about NT$3,539) and can reduce indoor air pollution through positive air pressure, homemade air purifiers, and Internet of Things sensors.
According to the report, Yodchanan stated that this technology can provide immediate protection for vulnerable groups. The first phase of the cleanroom system will be promoted in 83 locations across 8 northern provinces, targeting children, the elderly, and patients, with plans for nationwide expansion.
Chiang Mai, a popular tourist destination in Thailand, has frequently been shrouded in haze since the end of last year. According to data from Swiss air quality tracking firm IQAir, the city has become one of the most polluted cities globally. (Editor: Xie Yi-xuan) 1150420
Forest fires in Thailand's northern Chiang Mai province continue to spread. Many fires are occurring in high-altitude mountainous areas, making them difficult for firefighters to reach on foot and requiring aerial support for extinguishment. These widespread wildfires are considered the main cause of the intensified PM2.5 air pollution in Chiang Mai and other areas.
The Thai government's Public Relations Department issued a press release today stating that Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, after receiving a briefing on the FY2027 budget this morning, will co-chair a disaster prevention and mitigation strategy meeting with ministry heads before departing for Chiang Mai to inspect the situation.
The Thai government indicated that Anutin's visit to Chiang Mai will focus on four main aspects: Trade and Agriculture, by strengthening the prohibition of agricultural product imports involving open burning and enhancing supervision of agricultural activities in high-altitude areas; Fire Control, by increasing logistical and financial support for frontline firefighting teams; and Medical Assistance, by strengthening medical aid and protective measures for residents severely affected by air pollution.
Previously, Thai Public Television (Thai PBS) reported on the 19th that the Forest Fire Control Action Center of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation reported 647 fire points in 17 northern provinces that day, with 133 points alone in the Chiang Mai area. Additionally, a village chief fell into a coma due to smoke inhalation while participating in firefighting efforts and has been sent to the hospital for treatment.
Meanwhile, Thai Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, Yodchanan Wongsawat, visited Chiang Mai on the 18th to participate in a pilot project for 'cleanrooms' developed by Chiang Mai University. The Bangkok Post reported that this low-cost system costs approximately 3,600 Thai baht (about NT$3,539) and can reduce indoor air pollution through positive air pressure, homemade air purifiers, and Internet of Things sensors.
According to the report, Yodchanan stated that this technology can provide immediate protection for vulnerable groups. The first phase of the cleanroom system will be promoted in 83 locations across 8 northern provinces, targeting children, the elderly, and patients, with plans for nationwide expansion.
Chiang Mai, a popular tourist destination in Thailand, has frequently been shrouded in haze since the end of last year. According to data from Swiss air quality tracking firm IQAir, the city has become one of the most polluted cities globally. (Editor: Xie Yi-xuan) 1150420