Bangkok air quality falls below safety standards
The air quality in some parts of Bangkok is in unsafe territory, with particulate matter measuring less than 2.5 micrograms per cubic metre averaging 46-106mcg per cubic metre on Friday (January 10).
The data was revealed by the Air Quality and Noise Management Bureau after its 7am haze reading.
The air quality standard guideline of Thailand’s Pollution Control Department stipulates that PM2.5 should not exceed 50mcg per cubic metre. The World Health Organisation prescribes that particulate matter should not exceed 25mcg per cubic metre in a 24-hour mean.
Due to the increase in dust particles, the bureau has suggested that residents in polluted areas avoid outdoor activities if there are initial symptoms such as coughing, difficulty in breathing and eye irritation especially for the elderly, children and respiratory patients.
The 26 districts where PM2.5 dust particles fell short of safety standards were: Ratchathewi, Samphanthawong, Phaya Thai, Wang Thonglang, Pathumwan, Bang Rak, Yan Nawa, Chatuchak, Bang Kapi, Lat Krabang, Thonburi, Khlong San, Bang Khen, Bang Phlat, Sathorn, Khlong Toei, Bang Sue, Lak Si, Bueng Kum, Suan Luang, Khlong Sam Wa, Bang Kho Laem, Bangkok Noi, Phasi Charoen, Bang Khun Thian and Phra Nakhon.