Bangkok to Ban Trucks in "Low Emission" Zones Amid Pollution Rise

[webfact]

Picture courtesy: Daily News

 

In response to heightened air pollution, Bangkok is set to implement a new ban on trucks entering designated "low emission" zones. This move, introduced by the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), targets the looming threat of PM2.5 pollution during the cool season, spanning from November to March.

 

Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt announced that the zones would be declared in districts like Dusit, Phaya Thai, and Phra Nakhon when PM2.5 levels reach the Red Level (90µg/m3) for two consecutive days. These areas will be enforced as low emission zones with a prior 24-hour notice, remaining effective for three days.

 

To maintain compliance, haulage operators must register their trucks from 1st November, ensuring vehicles are in optimal condition with updated oil filters. Failure to do so could result in a fine of up to 2,000 baht or a month's imprisonment for unregistered trucks found in these zones.

 

The BMA's initiative aims to incentivise operators to maintain their vehicles properly, mitigating their contribution to urban pollution. The Governor is hopeful that around 500,000 trucks will register within the fiscal year.

 

Additionally, in events where PM2.5 pollution persists at dangerous levels, the governor has encouraged businesses to adopt "work from home" policies to reduce commuter traffic and emissions.

 

Bangkok is also prepared to handle pollution-related health issues, with several hospitals such as Central, Taksin, and Sirindhorn equipped to treat affected individuals, reported Thai PBS.

 

 

-- 2024-10-30

 

 

[KhunLA]

Is this not something that is done every year anyway, supposedly ?  Inspected, insured, tax paid.

 

All vehicles spewing out black smoke should be pulled over, fined & 'tagged' removed from the road and not allowed to proceed till serviced.   Problem solved 

[lordgrinz]

They can't even get Somchai to wear a helmet, or to stop riding against traffic, good luck.

[MalcolmB]

8 minutes ago, lordgrinz said:

or to stop riding against traffic, good luck.

Riding against the traffic shortens the distance resulting in lower emissions.

 

[kingstonkid]

4 hours ago, KhunLA said:

Is this not something that is done every year anyway, supposedly ?  Inspected, insured, tax paid.

 

All vehicles spewing out black smoke should be pulled over, fined & 'tagged' removed from the road and not allowed to proceed till serviced.   Problem solved 

What about the old buses that every time they shift gear they leave you blind

[hotchilli]

30 minutes ago, kingstonkid said:

What about the old buses that every time they shift gear they leave you blind

Labelled as cultural tour buses and given a free pass.

[kingstonkid]

10 minutes ago, hotchilli said:

Labelled as cultural tour buses and given a free pass.

No I am talking about the BMA buses that transport Thais