Bangkok Introduces Free Public Transport to Combat Air Pollution

Bangkok, The Gulf Observer: Thai authorities have implemented a week-long free public transport initiative in Bangkok, starting yesterday, to tackle escalating air pollution levels. The measure has already resulted in the closure of hundreds of schools and a shift to remote work for many employees.
The initiative allows passengers to use buses and elevated and underground electric trains across the capital without any charge. Authorities hope the move will reduce the number of private cars on the road, a significant contributor to air pollution.
Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra addressed the issue in a statement on her Facebook page on Friday, expressing concern and reaffirming her government’s commitment to resolving the crisis through short- and long-term measures.
While air pollution has long been an issue in Thailand’s northern regions—where forest and agricultural waste burning are major contributors—Bangkok has increasingly suffered from extended periods of high pollution levels, particularly during cooler months. Key sources include emissions from vehicles and factories, as well as dust from construction sites.
These microscopic particles pose severe health risks, as they can penetrate deep into the lungs and circulate throughout the body, causing both short-term respiratory issues and long-term health complications.
According to the Swiss-based air quality monitoring service IQAir, Bangkok ranked as the 14th most polluted city globally as of yesterday, with air quality levels deemed borderline unhealthy for all. Earlier in the week, the city was among the top 10 most polluted cities worldwide.