The Haze is Coming – Northern Governors told to Prepare for Tackling Haze Problem

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CHIANG RAI -Thailand’s Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Interior,  Kritsada Boonrat has suggested provincial governors foster cooperation between government units and the public in tackling the haze problem.

Different units are responsible for controlling burning in different areas.

Permanent Secretary Kritsada Boonrat said the ministry instructed all provinces to prepare for the haze problem expected to take place in January – April this year. Focus is put on the nine northern provinces affected by haze every year, including Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai, Nan, Phrae, Phayao, Mae Hong Son, Lamphun, Lampang and Tak.

Different government units are designated to be in charge of tackling haze in different areas. The Ministry of Interior, in cooperation with the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, is responsible for agricultural areas.

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment is the main unit responsible for reserved forests and national parks. The ministry will construct firebreaks, patrol the forests and take legal action against the wrongdoers.

The areas along highways are under the responsibility of the Ministry of Transport with support from the Ministry of Interior and relevant units.

The permanent secretary also instructed provinces to urgently implement anti-haze plans and measures in the same direction and encourage all sectors to join hands in haze prevention.

By Suwit Rattiwan