Bangkok’s worsening air quality has led the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) to implement Work from Home (WFH) measures. Spokesperson Ekwaranyu Amrapal stated these policies target rising PM2.5 levels expected on January 20–21, 2025. Key concerns include:
- PM2.5 levels in over 35 districts likely exceeding the orange alert threshold.
- Poor air ventilation with dispersion rates between 875–2,250 m²/s.
- Over 80 daily hotspots detected between January 10–15.
WFH arrangements will initially apply on January 20–21. The BMA may extend these measures until January 24 if pollution worsens. Nearly 100,000 workers from various sectors are involved, with organizations notified to facilitate the transition. Registration details are available at https://bit.ly/3Nn25nR?r=qr, and inquiries can be made via 0 2203 2951.
Guidelines for Schools in Affected Areas
School administrators must assess PM2.5 levels to decide on closures:
- 37.6–75 µg/m³ (Orange Zone):
- Principals may close schools for up to three days.
- District directors may authorize up to seven days of closure.
- Above 75 µg/m³ (Red Zone) for Three Days:
- The Education Bureau Director can approve closures for up to 15 days.
- The Bangkok Governor may order indefinite closures for five or more affected districts.
If schools close, online classes or make-up sessions must be arranged. Schools that remain open must provide dust-free areas for vulnerable students and enforce mitigation measures.
Updated Work Rules for Civil Servants
The Bangkok Civil Service Subcommittee revised work protocols for government staff:
- Flexible office hours.
- Hour-based work schedules.
- Remote tasks that don’t require public interactions.
Traffic-Related Emission Control Efforts
The BMA reports notable progress in curbing vehicle emissions:
- Green List Program: Registered 31,041 six-wheeled vehicles, exceeding the initial goal of 10,000 by 310%.
- Vehicle Campaign: Filter replacements in 229,711 vehicles reduced traffic-related PM2.5 emissions by 12%.
A pilot program using CCTV to monitor vehicles in the Low Emission Zone (LEZ) around Ratchadaphisek identified 9,881 vehicles, including 1,630 Green List vehicles, between January 11–16.