Chiang Mai, a northern city in Thailand, was identified as the most polluted city in a global ranking, a finding reported by Phys.org based on data provided by the Agence France-Presse (AFP). The assessment highlights a troubling pattern of air quality that has implications for residents and visitors alike, drawing attention to the city’s environmental health.
According to IQAir, an international air quality monitoring service, Chiang Mai’s fine particulate matter, known as PM2.5, reached alarming levels. The reported concentration was about 35 times higher than the World Health Organization’s safety thresholds, underscoring a severity that warrants sustained public health attention and corrective action. The figures reflect a complex mix of sources and seasonal influences that together create dangerously smoky air for extended periods.
Observers point to a combination of traditional farming practices and ongoing activity across the landscape. Farmers often burn residual vegetation from the previous growing season to prepare land for the new cycle, a practice that is intertwined with other contributing factors such as ongoing forest fires and emissions from vehicles. This confluence of factors intensifies the air pollution problem, particularly during certain months when weather patterns trap pollutants near the ground.
In March, Thai authorities acknowledged the urgency of addressing air pollution and called for decisive measures. Government officials projected that a large portion of the province’s population would require medical attention related to poor air quality, highlighting the need for comprehensive policy responses, public health preparations, and community-level interventions to mitigate exposure.
Despite the persistent fog and health concerns, Chiang Mai continued to attract visitors and sustain its peak tourist season. City guests and travelers cited the city’s cultural richness, including its renowned temples and historic sites, as compelling reasons to explore despite the environmental challenges. The experience of visitors emphasizes a broader discussion about balancing tourism growth with environmental health, ensuring that heritage sites remain accessible while safeguarding public well-being.
Meanwhile, Hanoi—formerly Vietnam’s capital—also appeared in rankings of highly polluted cities, illustrating that air quality concerns span multiple Southeast Asian and East Asian urban centers. The comparison invites a broader regional conversation about air pollution drivers, cross-border environmental policies, and the shared responsibility of governments, industries, and communities to protect air quality for current residents and future generations. (Source: AFP via Phys.org)