Thailand’s Pollution Control Department (PCD) has scheduled a meeting with related agencies this afternoon (Monday) to discuss the air quality in Bangkok and its suburbs as the amount of PM2.5 particulate exceeded standard levels in 15 areas this morning.

The department’s director-general, Mr. Pralong Damrongthai, said that the meeting will discuss additional measures to address the air quality problem, adding that that air quality in the city and its surrounding areas usually worsens in the afternoon, because the level of PM2.5 dust particles tends to increase, and that the cold weather, the looming high pressure and light winds are combining to reduce the air quality from today until Wednesday.

The Meteorological Department predicts strong winds on Thursday, which will help disperse PM2.5 dust particles to higher altitudes, improving ground level air quality.

Air quality monitoring devices at 48 stations in Bangkok and its suburbs, this morning showed readings of PM2.5 particulate ranging from 34-63 microns, against the standard level of 50 microns, with a tendency to rise this afternoon.

The areas found to have excessive dust particles include:

• Rama 3-Charoenkrung Road in Bang Kor Laem district, Soi Nikhom Ban Rodfai Thonburi 5 in Bangkok Noi district, 58 microns
• Tambon Omnoi of Krathumban district in Samut Sakhon, 62 microns
• Tambon Songkhanong, Phra Pradaeng district of Samut Prakan, 61 microns