The Royal Thai Army has deployed a special unit of soldiers on horseback to patrol forests in Chiang Mai in an effort to prevent wildfires and reduce dangerous PM2.5 air pollution in northern Thailand. Get today's headlines by email The unusual patrols come as particulate pollution levels continue to rise across the North, with authorities attempting to prevent the seasonal burning that often worsens air quality in Chiang Mai and surrounding provinces. Soldiers from the Army’s Animal Battalion are riding horses through forested areas to monitor conditions and detect potential fire hazards. Lieutenant Colonel Sukhum Paetyarak, commander of the Animal Battalion under the Royal Thai Army Veterinary and Remount Department, has mobilised the horseback unit to conduct intensive patrols in high-risk wildfire areas. The strategy focuses on reaching terrain that vehicles cannot access, allowing soldiers to inspect firebreaks and search for possible hotspots. The patrol routes cover key areas including the battalion grounds and mule area, the popular tourist attraction Huay Tung Tao, and strategic land surrounding the 7th Infantry Division. These areas are considered important for wildfire prevention due to their proximity to forests and populated areas. Wildfires are a major contributor to hazardous PM2.5 pollution in northern Thailand, particularly during the dry season when burning of vegetation can quickly spread across mountainous terrain. Authorities have increased monitoring efforts in recent weeks as dust levels have climbed and concerns grow over the health impact on residents. Army officials say the horse patrols are not simply symbolic but a practical solution for navigating rugged forest landscapes. The horses allow soldiers to move quietly and access steep or narrow trails that cannot be reached by vehicles or larger equipment. During the latest inspection, officials reported that the firebreaks within the unit’s area of responsibility were in 100 per cent sound condition and ready to be used if a wildfire emergency occurs. Patrol teams also confirmed that no hotspots or areas with dangerous accumulations of combustible material were detected. The findings have offered some reassurance to residents as authorities attempt to prevent the wildfire conditions that can push Chiang Mai’s air pollution to crisis levels. Preventive patrols are expected to continue as part of wider efforts to manage wildfire risks during the current dry season. The Nation reported that officials say ongoing monitoring will remain essential in the coming weeks as weather conditions and human activity continue to influence wildfire risks across northern Thailand. Pictures courtesy of The Nation Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 14 Mar 2026
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