Thai Government and Opposition Clash Over PM2.5 Pollution Response

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Commuters wear face masks to protect themselves from air pollution at a skytrain station in Bangkok, Thailand, Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit)

 

As the PM2.5 pollution crisis intensifies, the Thai government and opposition parties are engaged in a public dispute over environmental priorities, exacerbated by the expected continuation of hazardous smog conditions until Friday.

 

Opposition leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut took to Facebook to criticise Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. In a biting remark, he suggested the PM should ensure Thai citizens have the chance to breathe cleaner air before embarking on international travels, such as the current trip to Davos, Switzerland for the World Economic Forum.

 

Natthaphong, leader of the People's Party (PP), condemned the government's sluggish approach to addressing PM2.5 pollution.

 

He noted that a government initiative to incentivise sugar cane farmers to adopt non-burning harvest methods had not progressed to cabinet approval. Consequently, many farmers have continued the cheaper practice of burning, contributing further to air pollution.

 

Critics, including Natthaphong, argue the government should have earlier communicated clearer alternatives to biomass burning, emphasising the importance of action plans with concrete implementations.

In response, government spokesman Jirayu Houngsub defended the Prime Minister's participation at the World Economic Forum, underscoring its role in attracting foreign investment. He dismissed opposition criticisms as lacking decorum and political maturity.

 

As pollution levels rise, especially in Bangkok, the city's governor, Chadchart Sittipunt, announced emergency measures, including the suspension of onsite classes for 103 schools in favour of remote learning. He attributed worsening air quality to poor ventilation and increased emissions due to inner-city roadworks.

 

Starting Thursday, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration will enforce a ban on trucks entering designated low-emission zones without prior registration. AI-equipped security cameras will assist in monitoring compliance, with violators facing potential legal action, reported Bangkok Post.

 

-- 2025-01-23

 

 

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