Tourist arrivals in the northern Thai town of Pai have fallen by nearly 90% as severe air pollution and persistent haze continue to blanket the region.
- Tourist arrivals in Pai have dropped by nearly 90% over the past two months.
- More than 1,000 fire hotspots were detected across 17 northern provinces in a single day.
- PM2.5 readings in Mae Hong Son province have reached hazardous levels.
Impact on Pai Tourism
Air quality in Mae Hong Son province has reached hazardous levels, with PM2.5 readings far above safe limits. The degradation is attributed to persistent wildfire smoke and widespread burning across northern Thailand.
Jurairat Kantasuk, a former village head in Pai, reported that residents have lived with wildfire smoke for nearly a month, necessitating the use of masks every morning.
The conditions have led to a sharp decline in visitors. Many foreign tourists who booked trips in advance have reportedly stayed only one day before leaving due to the intolerable air quality.
Public Health Response
Local authorities have distributed protective masks and advised residents to limit outdoor activities. Health workers are also monitoring vulnerable groups, including children and the elderly.
The scale of the crisis is underscored by the detection of over 1,000 fire hotspots across 17 northern provinces in a single day.
Health officials continue to warn that the haze poses a serious public health risk as the tourism sector in northern Thailand comes under increasing pressure.
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