CHIANG RAI – Officials rushed to control a wildfire that spread around Doi Pha Ngom, a mountain area in Pa Ngio Subdistrict, Wiang Pa Pao District, where the sacred Phra That Doi Pha Ngom and a monks’ residence are located. Because of the risk of the fire spreading further, the province sent in teams through the night and used drones to monitor the area closely.
Chiang Rai Governor Chucheep Pongchai said the latest forest fire incident began late on the night of March 27. Flames moved quickly across Doi Pha Ngom, raising concern for the religious site and nearby forest.
After getting the report, the province ordered the forest fire control center to work with wildfire officers, the Department of National Parks, district officials, local volunteers, and residents to stop the fire as fast as possible.
The work was difficult because the area is steep, remote, and heavily forested. Even so, teams on the ground kept moving through the dark on foot. They cut firebreaks and sprayed water to stop the flames from reaching the Tusita Pha Ngom monastic area and the sacred site.
By the morning of March 28, the situation had started to improve. The Wiang Pa Pao district chief went to the scene to direct operations and inspect damaged areas. At the same time, officials flew drones over the mountain to assess the fire line and check for hot spots that could reignite. The fire is now under control, but authorities are still keeping a 24-hour watch in case it starts again.
Hot Spots Across Chiang Rai Province
The Chiang Rai Office of Natural Resources and Environment reported 65 hot spots across the province. In recent days, Wiang Pa Pao District has recorded the highest total, with 95 accumulated hot spots. Meanwhile, PM2.5 levels in Mueang Chiang Rai, Mae Sai, and Chiang Khong have climbed to levels that seriously affect public health.
Because of the worsening fire and air pollution, the governor told forestry and park agencies to tighten control measures. If conditions do not improve, they may temporarily close forest areas. He also asked people across Chiang Rai not to burn anything in open areas until May 10, 2026. Anyone who breaks the ban will face the strongest legal action allowed.
At the same time, authorities are preparing to send joint patrols with military security units and forest officers into high-risk zones, with Wiang Pa Pao set as the first priority on March 31. If weather conditions improve and humidity is high enough, the province will also coordinate with agriculture agencies to request artificial rain to help reduce dust and improve air quality.
The governor said this incident shows the sacrifice of officers, volunteers, and local communities who continue fighting fires day and night without stopping. Their work helps protect the forest, shield important religious places, and reduce the health risks caused by smoke and fine dust in Chiang Rai.
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