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Monday, February 10, 2025

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Online Classes Suggested for Schools Amid PM2.5 Crisis

Schools in Thailand may shift to online classes as PM2.5 fine dust pollution worsens across the country, including in Bangkok, according to the Education Ministry. Teachers have been instructed to monitor students’ health closely as air quality deteriorates.

On Tuesday, Education Ministry spokesman Siripong Angkasakulkiat announced that Minister Permpoon Chidchob has urged schools to implement appropriate measures to safeguard students amid rising pollution levels and cooler weather conditions, which trap fine dust particles in the atmosphere.

Elevated PM2.5 levels pose significant health risks, particularly for children, increasing cases of respiratory ailments such as clogged nostrils, red eyes, and fevers. These symptoms, compounded by sleep disturbances, can impede students’ learning abilities, said Mr. Siripong.

To minimize exposure, schools have been directed to limit outdoor activities, including morning assemblies, sports, and scout training sessions. In areas severely affected by pollution, schools are encouraged to conduct online classes or adopt measures that ensure a safer learning environment.

Some schools have proactively installed dust control systems, ventilation fans, and water sprays while educating students on the dangers of haze. These efforts aim to mitigate the impact of pollution and help students maintain their academic performance, said Mr. Siripong.

Meanwhile, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) reported that air quality in 70 areas of the capital exceeded the safe threshold of 37.5 micrograms per cubic meter (µg/m³) on Tuesday.

Deputy Democrat Party leader Suchatchavee Suwansawas proposed creating a Low Emission Zone (LEZ) in 16 central Bangkok districts, covering 130 square kilometers, to address the crisis. The policy would charge fossil-fuel vehicle drivers entering the zone while exempting electric vehicles. According to Mr. Suchatchavee, this initiative could significantly improve air quality in the affected areas.

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