Residents note that burning continues unchecked!

Further to the recent issuance by the Governor of Chiang Mai, Wibun Sa-nguanphong, of a Public Order banning burning of all kinds in open areas, an announcement has been made that all preventative and safety measures have now been implemented.
The head of the Chiang Mai Office of Public Disaster and Prevention, Prachon Prachayasakul, stated that his office has co-ordinated with forestry officials and local organisations in order to ensure that last year’s disastrous pollution problems are not repeated in 2008. Personnel and equipment to deal with fires are at present on standby, and the public are requested to call the relevant call centre number, 053-409345 to report any burning of stubble, rubbish, etc. The press release does not mention whether the personnel at the call centre are able to take calls in English, but states that the centre will be able to co-ordinate with the police and fire departments to ensure an immediate response.
The report also states that the preventative measures which have been put in place will only be successful if local citizens and the general public respond to and co-operate with the local government’s call to eliminate this traditional practice and to adopt other, more modern methods of land clearance, fertilisation and rubbish disposal
2007’s pollution problems caused massive disruption and damage to the local economy, as tourists cancelled or foreshortened their visits to the entire Northern area of the Kingdom, and residents left the area for fresher locations. Some, no doubt, decided not to return. It is difficult to understand how this problem can be solved when, in at least one other Northern province, Mae Hong Son, “controlled” burning seems to be permitted providing local headmen are informed and give their approval.

Source: Chiang Mai Mail