Bangkok is facing a serious air quality crisis, with air pollution prompting the closure of over 350 schools, marking the highest number of closures in five years. As PM2.5 levels soar, authorities scramble for solutions to protect residents, especially students.
School Closures Impact Thousands
On 24 January 2024, Bangkok Metropolitan Administration reported that 352 schools across 31 districts have shut down due to hazardous air quality. This unfortunate event affects thousands of students, with closures lasting from a day up to a week.
- On 23 January, 194 schools initially closed as PM2.5 levels reached 122 micrograms per cubic metre.
- By Friday, levels slightly decreased to 108 micrograms per cubic metre, still far exceeding WHO recommendations.
Emergency Measures Announced
To mitigate the effects of pollution, public transport in Bangkok will be free for a week starting on 27 January. This move aims to reduce traffic congestion, which is partly responsible for the city’s notorious air quality.
Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has also introduced a ban on crop stubble burning, which is known to contribute significantly to air pollution in Thailand.
Criticism of Government Response
While these measures have been implemented, criticism from opposition parties persists. Critics argue that Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who is currently attending the World Economic Forum in Switzerland, isn’t addressing the air quality crisis with the urgency it warrants. Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut from the People’s Party commented on social media, highlighting the disparity between the fresh air in Davos and the polluted air in Bangkok.
Regional Context
Bangkok isn’t alone in facing these challenges. Other Southeast Asian cities, including Ho Chi Minh City and Phnom Penh, are grappling with similar issues. The air quality in Phnom Penh has reached a ‘red level,’ attributed to climate change and waste incineration.
According to a recent UNICEF report, air pollution significantly impacts children’s education worldwide, with millions affected by climate shocks in 2024.
As the situation develops, residents are urged to stay indoors as much as possible and to monitor official communications for health advisories.