A further six districts have been designated emergency disaster relief zones: Hod, Samoeng, Chiang Dao, Mae Wang, Mae Taeng and Doi Saket. Government agencies, local authorities and relevant bodies have been ordered to deploy immediately to assess damage and assist affected residents, with close monitoring to continue until conditions improve.
The declarations unlock emergency contingency funds that can be used at once for firefighting operations, including meals for personnel, equipment repairs and mobilisation costs. They also allow faster, more coordinated deployment of firefighting teams from the Department of National Parks, the Royal Forest Department and the military to the worst-affected areas, and give authorities stronger legal powers to control forest areas and prosecute those responsible for deliberately setting fires.
PM2.5 levels across the city this afternoon remained far above safe thresholds, with hourly readings exceeding 200 micrograms per cubic metre in the city centre and nearby districts. Thick haze blanketed the city as residents took to the streets in masks.
The province continues to urge people to avoid outdoor activities, wear protective masks and seek medical attention promptly if symptoms develop. Health units, HPHs and village health volunteers are conducting door-to-door visits across all districts to distribute masks and provide guidance, with particular attention to vulnerable groups. Residents are also being directed to make use of clean air rooms, and water misting in community areas has been stepped up.
