(KPL) The Department of Environment under the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment has issued an urgent alert as PM2.5 air pollution levels rise to hazardous levels across the country, posing serious risks to public health.

Officials said the worsening smog is driven by dry weather and a sharp increase in fire hotspots recorded between April 9 and April 12. Authorities reported 1,161 hotspots on April 9, rising to 2,288 on April 10, before dropping to 1,021 on April 12.

Most of the fires are linked to agricultural burning and roadside waste burning, particularly in forest areas where land use issues remain unresolved despite Prime Minister’s Order No. 20/PM issued in November 2024.

Vientiane Hit by Haze from Forest Fires

Vientiane continues to face severe air pollution due to ongoing forest fires in nearby protected areas, including Phou Phanang and Phou Khao Khouay. As of April 11, authorities estimate that 220 to 250 hectares of forest in Phou Phanang have been damaged.

Smoke from these fires, combined with transboundary haze carried by southeast monsoon winds, has created dense “dry haze” conditions, significantly reducing air quality in the capital.

PM2.5 Levels Far Above Safety Standard

Air quality data recorded on April 13 shows PM2.5 levels exceeding the national safety limit of 50 micrograms per cubic meter:

Northern region recorded peak levels of 328, considered severely hazardous

Vientiane reached 170 in the afternoon

Central and southern regions reported levels between 60 and 85, affecting sensitive groups

Authorities Intensify Response

In response, authorities have stepped up efforts to control the situation, including deploying firefighting aircraft and more than 200 personnel daily in coordination with the Ministry of National Defense.

A strict nationwide ban on all forms of burning has also been enforced.

Public Urged to Take Precautions

Officials are advising the public to limit outdoor activities, especially children, the elderly, and those with underlying health conditions. Residents are urged to wear N95 masks when going outside.

The government is preparing to distribute N95 masks to people in high-risk areas.

Authorities also urged the public to monitor air quality updates through the “Lao Agriculture News” Facebook page to stay informed and protect their health.

KPL