Thai North on alert against haze

BANGKOK, February 3 (TNA) - Local authorities have been on alert to cope with haze in the Thai North although dust particles in the region have not yet exceeded the standard level of 120 microgrammes per cubic metre so far. In Chiang Mai Province, Governor Suriya Prasartbandit told journalists on Tuesday, citing a latest report of the Department of Pollution Control under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, that the level of small dust particles in the province has increased to 92.34 microgrammes per cubic metre on average, which remains safe for people. The governor conceded, however, that he is worried over the seasonal haze problem and has ordered authorities concerned in all districts in his province to remain on alert to cope with smog in their respective areas, especially during a two-month period at risk, from February 15-April 15. The governor stressed if there was any fire breaking out in Chiang Mai during the two-month sensitive period, local officials must immediately put it out. According to the Department of Pollution Control's latest report, the level of dust particles in provinces in the Upper Thai North now stands at 44-97 microgrammes per cubic metre on average. (TNA)