Bangkok air pollution Schools closed due to air pollution PM2.5 health risks Thailand seasonal pollution
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Bangkok’s Air Pollution Crisis: 352 Schools Shut Down Amid Toxic Smog

Bangkok is grappling with a severe air pollution crisis, forcing 352 schools across 31 districts to close on Friday, according to city authorities. This alarming development comes as the Thai capital ranks as the world’s seventh-most polluted major city, as reported by air quality monitor IQAir.

For years, seasonal air pollution has plagued Thailand and other Southeast Asian nations. However, this week’s hazardous air quality marks the most significant disruption since 2020, when widespread school closures last occurred due to pollution.

Schools Shut Down Over Dangerous Air Quality

“Bangkok Metropolitan Administration has closed 352 schools across 31 districts due to air pollution,” the city authority announced via its official LINE group. This closure followed a similar measure on Thursday, affecting over 250 schools.

Authorities are urging residents to work from home and have implemented restrictions on heavy vehicles entering the city. Seasonal pollution in Thailand intensifies during the colder months, as stagnant winter air traps smoke from crop stubble burning and vehicle emissions, creating a toxic cocktail.

Shocking PM2.5 Levels Raise Health Alarms

By Friday, the concentration of PM2.5 pollutants — dangerous microparticles that can penetrate the bloodstream through the lungs — soared to 108 micrograms per cubic meter. This is significantly higher than the World Health Organization’s recommendation of a maximum 24-hour average exposure of 15 micrograms.

Bangkok authorities have allowed schools in areas with elevated PM2.5 levels to decide on closures. Of the 437 schools managed by the Bangkok Metropolitan Authority, 352 had shut their doors by Friday morning, impacting thousands of students.

Government Steps Up to Tackle the Crisis

Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has issued a ban on stubble burning, warning violators of legal consequences. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, attending the World Economic Forum in Switzerland, has called for tougher pollution control measures. These include restricting construction activities in the capital and collaborating with neighboring countries to address transboundary pollution.

A Regional Pollution Challenge

The pollution crisis isn’t confined to Thailand. Neighboring countries like Vietnam and Cambodia are also grappling with poor air quality. On Friday, Ho Chi Minh City ranked second, and Phnom Penh ranked fifth among the world’s most polluted major cities.

However, Cambodia’s Environment Ministry remains confident in their air quality standards. Spokesman Khvay Atitya stated that the situation remains within safe limits, asserting, “Other countries have their own standards. Cambodia has our own standard to determine the air quality.”

As Bangkok battles its pollution crisis, the urgent need for long-term solutions has never been clearer. Governments must collaborate regionally to combat this recurring challenge and protect the health of millions.

🌟 Don’t just read—take action! Share this story to raise awareness about air pollution and its global impact. Together, we can advocate for a cleaner, healthier future.

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