Chiang Mai’s air pollution has reached a dangerous level for more than a week due to the level of dust particles smaller than 10 microns being over the acceptable level of 120 microgram per cubic meter. The air pollution is being caused by widespread forest fires and farming activities as many farmers still use the slash-and burn technique to clear land.

Chiang Mai Municipality has launched regulations to prohibit all burning activities to reduce the volume of dust and smog. In addition, the ad hoc air pollution center was set up to provide a team for collecting dried leaves and branches, and extinguishing fires immediately.

The current situation revealed that the air quality of Chiang Mai has been improving due to the report of the Department of Pollution Control. It is reported that the level of small dust particles has been reduced. Moreover, the Department of Meteorological forecasts that there will be a rainstorm during March 19-21, 2007. The situation is expected to improve soon.

I, therefore, would like to assure the Chiang Mai residents and foreigners that the situation will soon improve.

Boonlert Buranupakorn
Mayor of Chiang Mai Municipality
March 16, 2007