Forest Fires Spread Haze Along Thai-Myanmar Border

TAK, March 12 (TNA) -- Forest fires on both sides of the Thai-Myanmar border created hazardous smoke haze in border areas of Tak province and those in the neighboring country. The air pollution returned to five border districts of Tak province this morning after relief in the past two weeks. There were reports on forest fires in several districts from late last night to this morning. Fire fighters from all districts of Tak were mobilized to control the blaze on mountainous terrains. The officials had to carry water pails on their backs while climbing on trails to cope with forest fires throughout last night. Local residents had to wear face masks in the hot weather while visibility was low on local roads. In Mae Sot district of Tak, the level of particulate matter 2.5 micrometers (PM2.5) and less in diameter reached 76 micrograms per cubic meter of air in the past 24 hours. PM10 dust measured 127mcg. The air quality index soared to 164 points. Field burning and forest fires on both sides of the border were blamed. Local officials tried to solve the problem by spraying water in the air but the pollution was not relieved because of ongoing forest fires. (TNA)