Holiday Ayo - The impact of air pollution in Bangkok, Thailand, is estimated to cause significant economic losses.

The Kasikorn Research Center Thailand (KRC) estimates that air pollution exceeds 100 micrograms/m³ Air Quality Index (AQI) for one month.

Reporting from VN Express, Wednesday (29/1), the impact is estimated to reach THB3 billion (IDR 1.4 trillion).

According to the Thai PBS World report, high levels of PM2.5 in the atmosphere have led to increased spending on medical care and health prevention.

Although this benefits businesses, the expenditure is considered a lost opportunity for consumers. This is because the funds spent could have been used for other needs.

KRC estimates that around 2.4 million Bangkok residents suffer from allergies and respiratory diseases due to air pollution. Half of them require medical treatment at least once a month.

The cost of treatment and travel to health facilities is estimated to reach THB1,800-2,000 (IDR 866,236 – IDR 962,949) per person. In addition to the health sector, air pollution also has an impact on education and tourism.

Schools have been forced to suspend classes due to poor air quality. Meanwhile, the tourism sector has declined as tourists are reluctant to visit areas exposed to high pollution.

Many workers have also been forced to work from home to avoid exposure to pollution, which has also had an impact on economic productivity. The KRC stressed that air pollution in Bangkok must be addressed seriously.