Fine dust accumulated and became unhealthy in nine districts of Bangkok today.

The Environment Department of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration reported that particulate matter 2.5 micrometers and less in diameter (PM2.5) measured 30-61 micrograms per cubic meters of air in the past 24 hours as of 5-7am. The safe threshold is at 50mcg.

PM2.5 levels exceeded the safe threshold in Wang Thonglang, Pathumwan, Bang Kholaem, Phasicharoen, Bang Khen, Bang Phlat, Bang Sue, Laksi and Bung Kum districts.

City Clerk Silapasuay Raweesaengsoon said officials in the districts were ordered to often clean roads and pavements, spray water, campaign for the less use of private vehicles and engine maintenance and convince people to refrain from outdoor burning. All organizations of the BMA will maintain the engines of their vehicles to stop black smoke, she said.

People can monitor air quality in Bangkok in a real-time manner via www.bangkokairquality.com and the Facebook page of the Environment Department’s air and sound quality division

Source: TNA