Thailand’s PM2.5 Crisis: Public Demands Decisive Action as Dust Levels Soar
More than 90% of respondents in a recent Thairath Poll reported being affected by PM2.5 dust, with over 80% expressing concern that the situation will intensify. The survey, conducted between January 23 and 30, 2025, highlights growing public frustration and calls for the government to implement decisive measures and penalties to address the crisis.
The severity of the PM2.5 dust situation has had significant public health implications, prompting the government to take action. From January 25 to 31, 2025, public transportation services, including electric trains and buses operated by the Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA), were offered for free in Bangkok and surrounding provinces. This initiative aimed to reduce vehicle emissions, a major contributor to the hazardous dust levels.
The survey, which included 7,913 respondents, revealed that 90.01% were affected by PM2.5 dust, while 9.99% reported no impact. A staggering 87.42% expressed worry that dust levels would exceed safety standards, with only 8.17% feeling unaffected and 4.41% unconcerned.
When asked about the causes of PM2.5,42.55% attributed it to carbon emissions from the automobile industry, while 39.75% pointed to agricultural burning. Forest fires accounted for 10.64%, and 7.06% believed the dust originated from neighboring countries.
Public confidence in the government’s ability to resolve the crisis is low. Only 17.74% of respondents believe the government and related agencies can effectively address the issue,while 53.55% are skeptical,and 28.72% remain uncertain.To combat the crisis, 59.39% of respondents called for decisive measures and penalties, 31.92% advocated for promoting renewable energy to reduce pollution, and 8.68% emphasized the need for an effective dust alert system.
Key Survey Findings
| Question | Response |
|————–|————–|
| Affected by PM2.5 dust | 90.01% |
| Worried about increasing dust levels | 87.42% |
| Believe government cannot solve the issue | 53.55% |
| Causes of PM2.5: Automobile emissions | 42.55% |
| Causes of PM2.5: Agricultural burning | 39.75% |
| Preferred solution: Decisive measures and penalties | 59.39% |
As Thailand grapples with this environmental and public health crisis, the public’s demand for urgent action grows louder. Will the government rise to the challenge?
Stay informed about air quality updates and government measures by monitoring trusted sources like local news outlets.