Environment

Bangkok air pollution rises to unhealthy level

Bangkok, Dec 14 (EFE/EPA).- Air pollution hit levels classified "unhealthy" on Monday in and around the Thai capital, Bangkok, according to an air quality report by the Department of Pollution Control. 34 areas in Bangkok and surrounding provinces have levels of air pollutant PM2.5 - fine particulate matter less than 2.5 micrometers in diameter - exceeding the safety standard. Bangkok was ranked sixth in the list of cities with the worst air quality in the world, with 168 points in the Air Quality Index, according to Air Visual, which monitors air quality across the world. PM2.5 levels - which indicate the number of particles smaller than 2.5 microns in diameter - increased to 59 micrograms per cubic meter, more than double of what is deemed safe by the World Health Organizaton. Exceeding PM2.5 levels increase risk of respiratory and cardiovascular illnesses as well as cancer. Children and aged people and those with respiratory disorders are strictly advised not to venture out when PM2.5 levels exceed recommended degrees. (Camera: NARONG SANGNAK). SHOT LIST: HEAVY AIR POLLUTION OF FINE PARTICULATE MATTER (PM2.5) SHROUDS BANGKOK, THAILAND.