Chiang Mai, Thailand’s mountainous north, is a gateway city with a population of around 130,000. Along with Lahore, Tehran, and Beijing, Chaing Mai has been named the world’s most polluted city. Millions of tourists go to Chiang Mai as a preferred vacation spot each year. This desolate location is frequently favored for its serenity, lush forests, and mountain treks. But this beautiful place in Thailand has been choking on a spike in air pollution.

Chiang Mai Pollution Battle

Seasonal haze is common in Chiang Mai. However, the severity and length of these hazes have only become worse in the previous 20 years. The burning season in northern Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar between February and March worsens air pollution. However, being named the world’s most polluted city is cause for concern. IQAir claims that Chiang Mai topped the list of hundreds of worldwide cities with a very unhealthy rating. An IQAir is a measure of air quality. Despite its modest population, Chiang Mai competes with megacities such as Delhi and Shanghai for the worst air quality. Many large corporations continue to contribute to the already severe pollution without penalty. Thailand is a large producer of sugar cane and rice, and farmers who burn their fields to clear them contribute to pollution in the sky.

Implication And Solutions For Chiang Mai’s Looming Pollution Crisis

Chiang Mai’s status as the world’s most polluted city has significant economic ramifications. During peak fire seasons, some businesses have reported a considerable decline in tourism. A large number of respiratory-related diseases have been identified in the region’s residents.

In addition, the number of patients with respiratory problems is increasing in the region’s hospitals. The smoke issue has damaged people’s health in every area of the north, particularly Chiang Mai, where air pollution (levels) of PM 2.5 (fine particulate matter within the smog that is 2.5 microns or smaller in diameter) is constantly growing. PM 2.5 has been related to health concerns such as acute and chronic bronchitis and asthma episodes due to its ability to penetrate deep into the lungs.

The scenario in Chiang Mai emphasizes the importance of a collaborative effort by governments, businesses, and citizens to solve the issue of air pollution. While solutions such as prohibiting burning and encouraging alternate land-cleaning methods may be beneficial, the problem is complicated and requires a collaborative approach.

Aside from that, some typical practices that visitors or people might apply to include taking public transit or walking whenever possible. If you drive, ensure the engine is in excellent working order and that tailpipe emissions are tested annually. A public awareness campaign should be undertaken regularly. Finally, as responsible citizens, everyone should strive to make their decisions more ecologically friendly.

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