Chiang Mai continues to grapple with severe air pollution as illegal forest burning persists, with the northern Thai province maintaining its position among the world's most polluted cities. Air quality index readings remain critically high, posing significant health risks to residents. The hazardous conditions have forced authorities to declare a complete forest closure across the province as officials intensify enforcement efforts to combat the ongoing illegal burning activities.
Chiang Mai's provincial government announced a 100 percent forest closure and deployed additional personnel to conduct strict inspections. Authorities are implementing strict legal measures against violators found engaging in unauthorized burning. The air pollution crisis, driven primarily by agricultural and forest fires during the dry season, has become a recurring public health emergency affecting respiratory health and overall well-being of the local population and contributing to Thailand's annual seasonal air quality challenges.
