Haze causes big drop in visitors to Chiang Rai
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The haze problem in the northern provinces has reduced tourist numbers to Chiang Rai by more than 20 per cent and is likely result in a continuing downward trend if the problem persists, according to Chiang Rai Tourism Council president Somkiat Chuentheer
Provincial workers have been spraying water into the air in several locations throughout the province to reduce dust particle levels and the situation appears to be improving. Particulate levels, earlier showing the highest concentration in the region at almost 300 micrograms per cubic metre had dropped and the distinctive odour of burnt forests and fields was fading, but grey smog was still lingering.
Somkiat said the impact of the haze, caused by seasonal forest and farmland fires, had started to affect the tourism business in the province, with the number of visitors falling by more than 20 per cent compared with the same period last year. The number is expected to decline even further if the situation does not improve soon.
He urged Chiang Rai farmers to stop preparing their fields for the new round of crops by burning off last year’s ground cover and not to undertake any other open air burning activities. The authorities have been asked to take strict measures against violators.
