Bangkok
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has stated that he will support a Clean Air bill only if it is the version drafted by his Bhumjaithai Party, reaffirming the party’s central role in addressing Thailand’s persistent air pollution crisis.
Speaking recently amid ongoing concerns over PM2.5 dust levels, particularly in northern Thailand, Anutin explained that his government would prioritize the Bhumjaithai-proposed “Draft Clean Air Act for the People” (ร่าง พ.ร.บ.อากาศสะอาดเพื่อประชาชน). He indicated that other versions under parliamentary consideration would not receive his backing.
If enacted, the Clean Air Act would serve as Thailand’s first comprehensive law dedicated to air quality management. It wants to establish a legal framework for controlling pollution sources, imposing penalties on violators, providing incentives for compliance, and creating mechanisms such as a Clean Air Fund. Proponents view it as a crucial tool to safeguard public health, mitigate economic impacts from haze, and enshrine citizens’ basic rights to clean air.
Thailand has long struggled with seasonal air pollution, driven by agricultural burning, forest fires, industrial emissions, and transboundary haze from neighboring countries. Northern provinces like Chiang Mai frequently record hazardous PM2.5 levels, affecting public health, tourism, and the economy.
Multiple drafts of a Clean Air bill have circulated in recent years, including proposals from political parties, the Cabinet, and civil society groups. In late 2025, the House of Representatives passed a composite version with strong support, but the process stalled after parliament’s dissolution. The Bhumjaithai Party has positioned its draft as a continuation of those efforts.
Anutin, who also serves as Interior Minister, has repeatedly pointed out air pollution as a top priority. During recent visits to affected areas and Cabinet discussions, he has ordered stricter enforcement of existing laws, integration of efforts across agencies, and measures such as banning imports of farm products linked to burning. He has described the bill as beneficial and supported across parties.
However, the prime minister’s firm stance on backing only the Bhumjaithai version has drawn scrutiny from opposition figures and activists. Some, including MPs from the People’s Party, have urged clarity on the government’s position and warned against political delays, especially as the current parliamentary timeline tightens.
Bhumjaithai has promoted its bill as a response to research showing worsening air quality trends, calling for systemic reforms in pollution management.
As Thailand faces another cycle of haze, the fate of the Clean Air legislation remains a key test for the government’s environmental commitments. With parliament’s schedule under pressure, the coming weeks could determine whether a dedicated Clean Air Act finally advances to provide long-term legal protections for cleaner air.
For the original version of this article, please visit The Pattaya News.
