Chiang Mai experiences the world's third worst air quality today

13 Sept 15:00 Key points summarised by AI

Chiang Mai registers the world's third-highest PM2.5 dust levels at 128.2µg/m³ and an AQI of 188, trailing only Lahore and New Delhi.
The city is enveloped in thick smoke, with PM2.5 readings significantly exceeding the safe threshold of 37.5µg/m³ across multiple districts.
Raging forest fires within Chiang Mai, neighboring provinces, and transboundary smoke from Myanmar are identified as the primary causes of the severe air pollution.
A total of 1,663 hotspots were detected across 17 northern provinces yesterday, indicating widespread burning contributing to the crisis.

Nationwide crackdown launched on illegal nominee shareholders and land holdings

Yesterday 15:20 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul initiated a nationwide crackdown on illegal Thai nominee shareholders in foreign-run businesses and land holdings to safeguard national interests.
The government will integrate efforts across all relevant agencies to target illicit foreign operations, forced sales of illegally acquired property, and high-risk land ownership schemes.
Key strategies include auditing suspect land and building holdings, establishing a long-term monitoring system, and cross-referencing data from various authorities to trace ultimate beneficial owners.
Prime Minister Anutin emphasized that no influential figures or corrupt officials are above the law, promising straightforward prosecution, asset seizures, and protection for enforcing officers.
Beyond land ownership, the integrated crackdown will also extend to tackle transnational crimes, including drug and human trafficking.