Hanoi, April 6 -- Bangkok (VNA) - Fine particulate pollution (PM2.5) has once again emerged as a serious concern in Thailand, particularly in the northern region, where prolonged high pollution levels have accumulated and begun to pose widespread risks to public health.

Dr. Somruk Chungsaman, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Public Health, said the latest air quality monitoring found that the 24-hour average PM2.5 concentration had exceeded the safety standard of 37.5 micrograms per cubic metre in 41 provinces.

Of those, 32 provinces have recorded PM2.5 levels above the standard continuously for more than three days, reflecting a prolonged build-up of pollution.

Northern provinces remain the most critical areas, particularly Chia...