Bangkok faces severe air pollution crisis, with Bang Na suffering from high PM2.5 levels

The Bangkok Air Quality Information Centre on Saturday morning reported a concerning rise in PM2.5 levels across the city, with many areas exceeding safe limits.

The average PM2.5 concentration for Bangkok is 36.7 micrograms per cubic metre (µg/m³), just below the standard limit of 37.5 µg/m³. However, certain areas are facing dangerously high pollution levels.

The top 12 areas with the highest PM2.5 concentrations are:

• Bang Na: 48.1 µg/m³
• Prawet: 47.4 µg/m³
• Chatuchak: 44.6 µg/m³
• Min Buri: 43.6 µg/m³
• Bang Rak: 42.9 µg/m³
• Nong Kham: 42.7 µg/m³
• Sathorn: 42.6 µg/m³
• Pathum Wan: 42.2 µg/m³
• Khlong Sam Wa: 41.4 µg/m³
• Lat Krabang: 41.0 µg/m³
• Bang Sue: 40.1 µg/m³
• Nong Chok: 40.1 µg/m³

Air Quality by Zone:

• North Bangkok: 32.7 – 44.6 µg/m³ (Moderate)
• East Bangkok: 25.3 – 47.4 µg/m³ (Health impacts possible)
• Central Bangkok: 27.4 – 37.7 µg/m³ (Moderate)
• South Bangkok: 28.9 – 48.1 µg/m³ (Health impacts possible)
• North Thonburi: 33.3 – 37.5 µg/m³ (Moderate)
• South Thonburi: 32.9 – 42.7 µg/m³ (Moderate)

Health Recommendations

For the general public:

• Use protective equipment, such as a PM2.5 mask, whenever outside.
• Limit time spent on outdoor activities or exercise that requires heavy physical exertion.
• Monitor for unusual symptoms like coughing, difficulty breathing, or eye irritation.

For at-risk groups:

• Always use a PM2.5 mask when outside.
• Avoid strenuous outdoor activities and follow medical advice.
• Seek medical attention immediately if any unusual symptoms occur.