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| Northern Thailand Alarmed by Smog |
| UPDATE : 10 February 2010 |
Many provinces in northern Thailand are currently experiencing thick smog.
Meanwhile, the governor of Chiang Mai has reassured that the air quality is up to standard and has ordered officials to keep their eyes out for outdoor fires.
Regarding the smog that has recently covered several areas in northern Thailand, Chiang Mai Governor Amornphan Nimanan said the current air pollution index and particulate level in Chiang Mai are still within the acceptable level set by the Pollution Control Department.
However, the governor has admitted that there was an increasing number of hot-spots and fires in the past week.
Officials in each district of the province have been ordered to closely monitor burning fires, both in the plain and highland areas.
Also, the Chiang Mai Provincial Office has received 20 garbage grinders to turn trash into fertilizer rather than burning it.
This will not only reduce air pollution, but it will also recycle waste materials.
Yesterday in Lampang, smog was seen covering a wide area.
The Pollution Control Department measured the pollution level at 10 microns, which is higher than the acceptable level of 120 micrograms.
From the latest report, the air quality measuring station in Lampang has measured 124.3 micrograms per cubic metre.
Many claim the smog came earlier this year than last year.
Officials believe the smog is a result of the “slash and burn” agricultural practice, along with the landscape of Lampang province, which is set in a low basin.
In the past, the government organized campaigns to discourage people from burning things, but they have not been very effective.
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