Chiang Mai Suffers: Wildfires Blanket City in World’s Worst Air
Chiang Mai, Thailand’s northern cultural hub, has again succumbed to hazardous air pollution, ranking eighth among the world’s top 10 most polluted cities on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, according to the Bangkok Post. A thick smog, laden with dangerous PM2.5 particles, blanketed the city, forcing residents to wear masks for protection. This underscores the persistent struggle against air pollution in Southeast Asia, mirroring crises in India and China. The visual impact is stark, reminiscent of dystopian films—a city obscured by a hazy veil, a stark reminder of the region’s environmental challenges.
City Governor Nirat Phongsittithaworn attributed the poor air quality to seasonal wildfires, exacerbated by transboundary haze and local hotspots. While wildfires are a recurring seasonal phenomenon, this year’s intensity is alarming. Authorities have intensified wildfire control efforts, deploying helicopters and ground crews, while assisting affected residents. Governor Nirat urged residents to seek medical attention if needed, stay informed, and heed government directives.
In Mae Taeng district, authorities discovered burnt areas on a 7-rai agricultural plot within a reserved forest, indicating illegal burning. The landowner reportedly fled, highlighting enforcement difficulties.
Addressing the crisis, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra pledged to prioritize air quality control nationally. Acknowledging the transboundary nature of the problem, she advocated for ASEAN discussions, emphasizing that a significant portion of Thailand’s PM2.5 pollution originates from neighboring countries. This echoes similar initiatives addressing cross-border air pollution elsewhere.
“The government will persist in its efforts, as air pollution control is a shared responsibility,” stated Ms. Paetongtarn.
The Thai government’s multi-pronged approach assigns specific tasks to various ministries:
- Interior Ministry: Over 133 arrests for pollution-related violations in the past three months.
- Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment: Increased funding for wildfire control.
Despite recent efforts temporarily lowering pollution levels, officials anticipate potential deterioration in May, highlighting the long road ahead. The government is actively collaborating with neighboring nations to address cross-border smog, with all civil servants reportedly committed to a cleaner, healthier environment.
The long-term consequences could be severe, impacting public health, tourism, and the economy. Increased respiratory illnesses, reduced visibility affecting transportation, and environmental damage are potential ramifications.
To protect themselves during periods of high air pollution, health officials recommend limiting outdoor activities, wearing N95 masks when outside, and using indoor air purifiers. Individuals with respiratory conditions should consult their doctors. While PM2.5 is a primary concern, other pollutants like ozone and sulfur dioxide also contribute to the hazardous air quality.
In conclusion, Chiang Mai’s return to the list of the world’s most polluted cities underscores the urgent need for sustained, collaborative efforts to tackle this pervasive environmental challenge. The Thai government’s commitment, combined with regional cooperation and individual responsibility, will be crucial in mitigating the current crisis and preventing future occurrences. Clean air requires ongoing vigilance and concerted action at all levels.
