BANGKOK: Southeast Asian cities were among five most polluted in the world on Friday ( Jan 24 ) according to air-monitoring organisation IQAir, with Ho Chi Minh City ranked second-most polluted, followed by Phnom Penh and Bangkok fourth and fifth, respectively.
In the Thai capital, a heavy dust was seen covering the state’s sky. Workers, especially those who spend most of their time outside, were suffering.
” My head is frequently congested. I have to blow my nose all the time”, said motorbike car drivers Supot Sitthisiri, 55.
Air pollution is caused by a combination of crop-related burning, business waste and big customers.
Transport Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit reported that the government is allowing completely public transport for a week in an effort to reduce waste.
Some 300 schools in Bangkok were closed this year, according to the area management.
” They may take more action, not just proclaim high dirt levels and nearby schools. There needs to be more than that”, said Khwannapat Intarit, 23.
” It keeps coming back, and it’s getting worse each day”.
In a social media post, Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra claimed that employees should be able to work from home to reduce vehicle use, and that particles coverings should be used at construction sites.
” The state is totally committed to solving the sand problem”, she said.
In Ho Chi Minh City, according to IQAir, the level of good inhaled particles was 11 days higher than the World Health Organization’s recommendation.
Weeks before, the funds Hanoi was named as the most polluted city in the world, prompting government to issue a warning about the health risks associated with air pollution and to urge the consumer to use masks and eye safety.
Institutions in Southeast Asia were pushing for longer-term options to reduce waste, including a carbon tax and encouraging the use of electric cars.