2020 really has it in it for us. Just last week, we were rejoicing that the temperature has dropped to a delightful 20-or-so degrees. This week, we’re not as joyful, seeing as we’re once again having to deal with cough-inducing and potentially deadly PM2.5 dust particles.
On 14 December, it was reported that the amount of dust particles in the city has reached “hazardous” levels. In 57 districts in Bangkok, PM2.5 was detected at 87 microgrammes per cubic metre (µg/m³), potentially peaking at 103µg/m³ during midday, when the average should be at approximately 50 µg/m³. The Dindaeng area was found to be the most polluted in the city.
Athapol Charoenxchansa, director of Pollution Control Department’s director, has claimed, according to BBC Thai, that the dust hanging over the city is partly due to poor ventilation. Apparently, he also said that Bangkok is similar to a mesh strainer wherein tiny particles are sucked in but not as easily let out.
There’s more bad news. It was forecasted that the levels of dust and pollution could remain severe until at least Dec 17. But reports also say that the situation may possibly be alleviated if the city sees better wind flow in the next few days.
The authorities have encouraged residents to refrain from burning waste and other activities that may cause more pollution.