Chiang Mai records world's most polluted air today; staying indoors advised

20 Sept 21:29 Key points summarised by AI

Chiang Mai has again been declared the city with the world's worst air pollution, driven by dangerously high PM2.5 levels.
Authorities urge public and private sectors to implement work-from-home policies and advise tourists to avoid outdoor activities until Thursday for health safety.
The severe pollution stems primarily from persistent forest fires, with officials struggling to contain numerous hotspots despite prevention efforts and rewards for arsonist arrests.
Fang and Prao districts are declared public disaster zones, as PM2.5 levels across northern and northeastern Thailand significantly exceed safe thresholds, unlike the relatively good air quality in Bangkok and the south.

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.