CHIANG RAI – The Governor of Chiang Rai, Chusap Phongsai, told reporters yesterday that the province faces a tough haze crisis. Local teams have fought wildfires hard, and those hotspots have dropped fast. But haze from Myanmar and Laos keeps rolling in.
From January 1 to April 1, Myanmar saw over 200,000 hotspots. Laos hit nearly 60,000. Last week alone, Myanmar logged almost 45,000. Laos added more than 21,000. Meanwhile, Chiang Rai managed just 905.
Local hotspots totaled 1,253 in that period. That’s only 4.33% of northern Thailand. It’s the lowest among the upper north provinces. On April 1, they spotted only 37. That cut 76% from March 31’s 156. Progress shows.
Governor Chusap Phongsai credits community leaders, farmers, and partners. They cut local burning big time. Fires eased up. Yet PM2.5 levels stay high. Cross-border smoke drives it.
Satellite data from Suomi VIIRS clears it up. Haze blows in from nearby countries. From January 1 to April 1, Myanmar logged 204,371 hotspots. Laos had 59,233. Chiang Rai? Just 1,253. Last week alone, from March 26 to April 1, Myanmar hit 45,572. Laos reached 21,646. Chiang Rai managed 905.
Governor Chusap said the province has been fighting back with steady action. Fire crews have built firebreaks along borders with neighbors. Local border committees (TBC) have coordinated the help.
When asked about the haze and health issues, the Governor said Health comes first. Under the “Health First” policy, the province has handed out nearly 300,000 masks, targeting high-risk zones. Over 457 dust-free rooms opened in schools, hospitals, and offices. People seek shelter there when dust spikes.
Vulnerable groups get close care too. Officials track over 150,000 elderly, young kids, and those with chronic illnesses. Health teams visit, monitor symptoms, and advise nonstop. This cuts health risks sharply.
The governor urged everyone to skip outdoor activities when dust exceeds limits. No open-air exercise. Check official updates closely. Stay safe for you and your family. All agencies work full throttle, he said.
They curb wildfires, cut dust sources, and guard health together. PM2.5 wins need all hands: government, business, and citizens. “Chiang Rai beats this with united strength. We aim for good soil, water, and clean air. That builds a lasting quality life for everyone,” Governor Chusap said.
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