Bangkok Shuts Down 352 Schools as Air Pollution Reaches Hazardous Levels

Authorities implement emergency measures, including free public transport and a ban on agricultural burning, as PM 2.5 levels exceed WHO safety limits.

• Over 350 schools in Bangkok were closed on January 24, 2025, due to dangerously high levels of air pollution, affecting thousands of students.
• PM 2.5 particle concentrations, which pose severe health risks, were reported at over seven times the World Health Organization's recommended threshold.
• The Thai government has introduced free Skytrain and bus services for a week to encourage reduced vehicle usage and mitigate pollution levels.
• A ban on the agricultural practice of burning crop residues was enacted, with violators facing potential legal action.
• Bangkok was ranked the 7th most polluted city globally on January 24, highlighting the region's persistent air quality challenges during this season.

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