Thailand government offers free public transport for 7 days in Bangkok
By: Jeanpitcha (Jeanne) ChokephaibulkitÂ
As of February 2025, 57 out of 77 provinces in Thailand were shrouded with unsafe levels of dust pollution on Monday morning. 13 of these provinces faced red levels (unhealthy) of particulate matter 2.5 micrometres (PM 2.5).
PM2.5 are dangerous, fine particulate matter smaller than 2.5 micrometers, this poses health risks as the particles can penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream.
The government took action by offering free public transport for 7 days (January 25-31). This lowered personal vehicle usage in Bangkok by almost 10%. Transport by electric train rose by 38%. Personal cars make up for half of Bangkokâs overall traffic at roughly 10 million vehicles.
The deputy prime minister of Thailand, Suriya Jungrungreangkit, stated that the reduced usage of personal vehicles had lowered traffic emissions which are one of the main sources of PM 2.5 dust particles in the city.
In addition, the government will adjust excise and custom taxes for EVs to promote usage. This is to take further action on lowering the pollution levels in not only Bangkok, but other provinces too.
Sources:
https://www.nationthailand.com/news/policy/40045788
Images:
https://www.iqair.com/th-en/air-quality-map?lat=13.7292915&lng=100.4888394&zoomLevel=10