Bangkok, Thailand, has recently been ranked as the eighth-most polluted city in the world due to soaring levels of microparticles in the air. Over 350 schools in the capital have been forced to close in response to the hazardous air quality, prompting authorities to advise people to work from home. The air quality index (AQI) in Bangkok reached 185 on Friday morning, well above the unhealthy threshold of 100.
The rise in pollution has been attributed to factors such as the seasonal burning of crops, vehicle emissions, and the burning of rubbish. PM2.5 levels in the city reached 108 micrograms per cubic metre, which is over 21 times the World Health Organization’s guideline. The pollution has the potential to cost the city between three to six billion baht if it persists for a month.
Authorities have taken measures to restrict the entry of heavy trucks into certain parts of the city in an effort to mitigate the pollution levels. While pollution is expected to subside over the weekend, residents have been urged to remain cautious and take necessary precautions to protect their health. The situation in Bangkok highlights the pressing need for sustainable solutions to combat air pollution in urban areas.
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