Bangkok, 25 March, 2019 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) wishes to advise tourists visiting Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai and the surrounding provinces to monitor air quality index (AQI) reports and take necessary precautions amid air quality concerns in Northern Thailand.
The overall air quality in parts of the North has been at unhealthy levels for the past weeks. The Pollution Control Department under the Ministry of Public Health is providing ongoing reports of air quality, and tourists can keep abreast of these via the Air4Thai website (link) or by downloading the mobile application “Air4Thai” on App Store (link) or Google Play (link).
Precautions people can take to help protect themselves against the unhealthy air pollution include wearing an N95-rated face mask whenever going outside. Anyone experiencing respiratory problems or other suspected effects of the haze are advised to see a doctor or pharmacist immediately.
As Thailand’s national tourist office, TAT stands ready to support the Royal Thai Government and public and private sector efforts that are underway to resolve the haze problem, which is blamed mostly on forest fires, open scrub burning and vehicle emissions.
The haze may also affect flight operations causing delays; thus, passengers are advised to check the flight status from the airline that they are travelling on or ask the Airport’s authority for the latest update.
TAT recognises the immense importance of tourism, and tourist safety is an ongoing top priority for us. If tourists do experience any unfortunate incidents, they are encouraged to immediately contact the Tourist Police Hotline on 1155, and can be confident that the authorities will do their utmost to provide all necessary assistance.
For Thailand’s tourism information, call the TAT Contact Centre on 1672.
Displayed Image (File Photo): Phramahathat Napamathanidol and Phramahathat Napaphol Bhumisiri (the Great Holy Relics Pagodas) at Doi Inthanon, Chiang Mai
