WEB DESK
Officials in Thailand have been advised people to work from home and wear face masks due to air pollution that has worsened to unhealthy levels in the capital city, Bangkok. The officials also urged people to use public transport rather than private cars for commuting. The Officials also said the authorities would seek to reduce sources of pollution such as outdoor burning and construction activities.
According to media reports, the number of patients experiencing pollution-related health problems more than doubled to nearly 213,000 this week, from about 96,000 last week. Most were experiencing respiratory tract problems as well as symptoms such as dermatitis or eye inflammation.
Agricultural burning and forest fires are major causes of air pollution in Thailand between December and April, especially in the northwest. Pollution from these fires also affects Bangkok, which already struggles with bad air due to its factories, construction, and traffic.