Press release: Press release on transboundary haze pollution issued

The ASEAN Specialized Meteorological Centre (ASMC) issued a statement regarding the conditions that may cause cross-border smog. In December 2022, fires and smog occurrences increased in the Mekong sub-region countries, and since 23 March 2023, it was observed that transboundary haze pollution occurred in northern Thailand and southern Laos, which are connected to the eastern border areas of Myanmar.

It is predicted that hot and dry weather will occur in the Mekong sub-region until May 2023, and the occurrence of fire hotspots will increase, and it is estimated that cross-border smog pollution will occur until May 2023. Myanmar was able to sign the ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution (AATHP) in order to control transboundary haze pollution.

As the implementation of the 2017 Chiang Rai Action Plan, reducing fire hotspots by 33 per cent by 2022 and implementing the Roadmap on ASEAN Cooperation towards Transboundary Haze Pollution Control with ASEAN member countries are a special focus. Regarding the cross-border smog pollution that is currently occurring along the borders of Myanmar, Thailand, and Laos, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Conservation, in cooperation with the relevant ministries, conducted a field survey of the Fire Hotspots obtained by the ASEAN Specialized Meteorological Centre (ASMC).

Analyzing the causes, carrying out fire prevention, extinguishing and restoration works, and continuous monitoring of Fire Hotspot risk information are being conducted. In order to reduce the risk of Fire Hotspots, officials continue to work together with the Nay Pyi Taw Council and relevant regional and state governments to develop plans and carry out awareness activities. The three countries will cooperate to solve the cross-border smog pollution issue that is currently occurring along the borders of Myanmar, Thailand, and Laos.