Bangkok prepares tighter vehicle controls for year-end PM2.5
Bangkok and the Pollution Control Department plan tougher vehicle checks, low-emission zone controls and better forecasts ahead of late-2026 PM2.5.
The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is preparing stricter measures to tackle fine particulate pollution, or PM2.5, which typically returns towards the end of the year.
Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt met Pollution Control Department (PCD) director-general Surin Worakijthamrong to coordinate measures focusing on tackling pollution at its source and systematically monitoring public health.
The BMA and PCD have outlined five key measures to prepare for PM2.5 pollution in late 2026.
1. Tougher checks on high-polluting vehicles
Authorities will step up inspections of vehicles emitting black smoke across all 50 Bangkok districts, linking databases to track vehicles that have been prohibited from use.
They will also promote the Green List programme, encouraging vehicle owners to carry out maintenance to reduce emissions.
2. Expanded low-emission zone measures
The city plans to strengthen its Low Emission Zone (LEZ) measures, restricting vehicle access according to Green List criteria during severe pollution episodes.
The aim is to reduce exhaust emissions in urban areas when PM2.5 levels reach critical levels.
3. Better forecasting and cross-boundary monitoring
Under the “Bangkok and Beyond” approach, authorities will work to improve the accuracy of pollution forecasts and monitor pollution beyond the capital’s boundaries.
This will be accompanied by monitoring of open burning and comprehensive support for farmers.
4. Proactive environmental inspections
Environmental inspection teams will visit and monitor pollution sources, including construction sites, restaurants, factories, other business premises and high-risk areas.
The inspections form part of efforts to address emissions directly at their source.
5. Preparing for clean-air legislation
The BMA will review its regulations to ensure they are fair and comprehensive, preparing for implementation under a future Clean Air Act.
The cooperation between Bangkok and the PCD is intended to strengthen early warnings, improve preventive healthcare and support more effective, sustainable action against air pollution.
