CHIANG MAI, 28 February 2012 (NNT) – The smoke haze situation in Northern Thailand is critical. The Noprthern Royal Rainmaking Center has begun its operations in the upper north in order to reduce the haze problem.

Chiang Mai Governor M.L. Panadda Diskul has applied zoning measures in 25 districts, assigning local authorities to control the haze situation in their designated zones.

Meanwhile, the artificial rain making operations in the upper northern region have begun, hoping the rain would help reduce the smoke problem.

Patients with respiratory problem have increased by 70% since the smoke haze problem began last month. Patients are urged to avoid staying outdoors and encouraged to wear face masks.

Military personnel in Tak and the provincial forest fire control station have managed to put out the fire in the area between Mae Sod and Muang districts. The forest fire situation this year is more severe than recent years’. Around 500 rai of forest have already been burnt down by the fire.

National News Bureau Of Thailand