In a surprising twist of events, yesterday’s clear skies turned murky as surging pollution levels put the brakes on education across the bustling capital city. Particularly hit by the pollution wave was Nong Khaem district, where the PM2.5 concentration soared to a worrying 77.8 microgrammes per cubic meter around midday. This surpassed the 24-hour safe exposure ceiling of 37.5µg/m³ set by the Pollution Control Department, triggering a momentous decision to shutter two local schools temporarily.
The air was thick with concern, as confirmed by Nanthaya Khiewsawang, the diligent assistant chief of the district. Among the affected institutions, Wat Udom Rangsi School, home to 2,152 enthusiastic learners, and Pracha Bamrung School, which counts 1,151 students amongst its community, were both compelled to halt physical classes. Undeterred, they swiftly transitioned to online education — a digital lifeline they plan to cling to until the air quality takes a turn for the better. If all goes well, Pracha Bamrung School anticipates its students will be back under its roof by January 22, and Wat Udom Rangsi aims for a January 23 reopening.
Alarmingly, the specter of pollution isn’t haunting Nong Khaem alone. In another corner of the city, Rat Burana district saw a similar closure with Wat Bangpakok School closing its doors. The pause is set to potentially end tomorrow, January 22, all fingers crossed for cleaner skies. In a proactive effort, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration issued a rallying call for residents to work remotely and embrace public transport to combat the pollution monster.
This isn’t merely Bangkok’s battle. Across Thailand, 64 out of the 76 provinces reported air quality taking a nosedive. In 28 provinces, the situation was dire, with pollution levels flashing hazardous warnings. Samut Sakhon, in particular, had alarm bells ringing with a staggering reading of 133.1µg/m³. Following close behind were Nakhon Pathom at 115.3µg/m³, Sing Buri at 107.6µg/m³, and a host of other provinces not far off.
While things were grim for some, pockets of the country were caught in a somewhat better air quality scenario. Moderate levels were noted in provinces like Ranong, Lampang, and Phayao, giving residents a semi-breathable reprieve amidst the pollution narrative. Further away from the pollution fray, places such as Nakhon Si Thammarat and Mae Hong Son were gleefully reporting good air.
The situation’s gravity underscores the urgency for collective action to tackle what has become an air crisis of befuddling proportions. As the city battles to curb its air quality woes, the message stands clear: adapt, cooperate, and above all, breathe — hopefully cleaner air — once more.
It’s mind-boggling that we’re still dealing with this level of pollution in 2025! Our children deserve better!
Absolutely, but it’s a complex problem tied to industrial growth and vehicle emissions. We need stricter regulations yesterday!
Agreed, but how do we enforce these regulations without hampering economic progress?
Exactly, that’s the million-dollar question. Maybe more innovation in cleaner technologies is the answer?
Can’t believe they’ll get to play video games during school time now. Lucky!
It’s not a vacation! This is about the health risks from pollution, not extra leisure time.
Switching to online classes must have been tough for teachers and students. Glad they made the quick transition though!
Most schools are already well-equipped for online education post-pandemic, thank goodness!
True! It’s nice to see the resilience of the education system in difficult times.
It’s absurd that we’re still debating about shutting down factories. It’s lives we’re talking about!
But shutting down factories means loss of jobs. It’s not so black and white!
There’s got to be a way to balance health and employment. Easier said than done, I guess.
As a parent, I’m worried how frequent school closures affect my child’s social development.
Valid concern, but health trumps all. We can work on social skills once the air clears up!
A reading of 133.1µg/m³ is beyond hazardous. The long-term health impacts could be catastrophic.
I’m relieved my kids don’t have to breathe this in, but what about the animals and plants? They’re suffering too!
Exactly! Unchecked pollution is devastating ecosystems as well. When will we act?
Don’t forget that this pollution also depletes soil quality, affecting agriculture.
Local administration should have seen this coming and acted sooner. It’s not like pollution suddenly appeared yesterday.
Remote work for everyone could help right away. Less commuting means less pollution, plus healthier workers.
Remote work sounds grand, but not everyone has the luxury. Think of retail, factory workers, etc.
Sad seeing our beautiful country’s image ruined by this haze. Tourism will suffer greatly if this continues!
Tourists should know not to visit during these times; research before you go!
I’m more concerned about what precedents this sets. Are we going to shut down every time things get tough?
It’s about time more people worked from home to decrease pollution. Commuting is just one major contributor.
What are the big industries doing to help solve the pollution problem they helped create?
Most claim to be working on sustainability goals, but the results speak for themselves.
If we’re serious about fixing this, we need international cooperation and support, not just local solutions.
International support is great, but local engagement and politics are equally important!