CHIANG MAI: Severe air pollution in Chiang Mai is forcing many families to reconsider living in the region, as worsening haze and smoke from fires pose serious health risks.
One such family is that of Tirayut Wongsantisuk, who moved to the city in the 2010s for its cool climate and natural beauty. However, rising pollution levels have now made him think about relocating for the safety of his children.
Tirayut said two of his daughters have been suffering from frequent nosebleeds and other health problems. He expressed concern that staying in such conditions could have long-term consequences. “If something bad happens to our child, we’ll regret it forever,” he said.
The situation has worsened in recent weeks as smoke from forest fires has spread across northern Thailand. According to air monitoring group IQAir, Chiang Mai has ranked among the most polluted cities in the world during this period.
When reporters visited the city, a thick layer of haze covered the sky, blocking mountain views and leaving a strong smell of smoke in the air. Satellite data showed around 4,750 fire hotspots across Thailand, many located in forest and farming areas.
Air quality readings have reached dangerous levels. The concentration of PM2.5 particles — tiny harmful pollutants that can enter the lungs — was classified as “very unhealthy.” These particles are especially dangerous because they can cause serious health issues, including breathing problems, heart disease, and eye irritation.
The pollution is largely linked to seasonal agricultural burning, where farmers clear fields by setting fires before planting new crops. Dry weather conditions also increase the risk of wildfires, making the situation worse each year between November and March.
Other residents are also taking action. Benjamas Jaiparkan, a school teacher, has temporarily sent her children to another province with cleaner air. She is now considering leaving the city permanently, especially for the sake of her young son, who has also suffered from nosebleeds.
“I don’t know how much more his lungs can take,” she said, expressing concern about the long-term health impact.
Authorities have responded by closing parks at high risk of fires and warning that anyone caught starting fires could face severe punishment. Under Thai law, illegal burning can result in up to 20 years in prison and heavy fines.
The pollution problem has also led to legal action. In 2023, around 1,700 residents filed a lawsuit against former Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha and government agencies, accusing them of failing to address air pollution effectively.
In early 2024, a court ordered the government to create an emergency plan within 90 days to tackle the issue. However, many residents feel that progress has been slow and insufficient.
The haze problem is not limited to Thailand. Other countries in Southeast Asia, including Malaysia and Indonesia, are also facing rising numbers of fire hotspots, contributing to regional air pollution.
Experts warn that without stronger action, the problem could continue to worsen, affecting millions of people across the region. For many families in Chiang Mai, the decision is becoming increasingly clear — to stay and risk their health, or leave in search of cleaner air and a safer environment.
