Pollution crisis in Bangkok
Pollution is one of the major crisis present in many countries in the world. Several cities are affected by the high levels of air pollution which is a serious health concern for its residents. In a recent approach, officials in Bangkok, Thailand have started using anti-pollution drones to combat pollution. In addition, pollution in Bangkok has reached hazardous levels.
Levels of PM2.5 (tiny particles 2.5 microns in diameter or smaller that can penetrate deep into the lungs) have reached an astounding 185 micrograms per cubic meter. Any value above 150 is deemed extremely hazardous for an individual while below 50 is a good level.
How the drones help
A fleet of anti-pollution drones was released which can spray water and eliminate pollution. The drones emit a mixture of water and a non-hazardous chemical spray which can help in curbing the pollution levels. An official from the Defense Technology Institute, a government agency, said “The test, in which drones sprayed for less than an hour, reduced the concentration of PM2.5 by 10 micrograms per cubic meter on average”
The fleet of drones deployed in a park
This approach of anti-pollution drones was only a test. However, it is still debatable whether the project is scalable to an entire city. Drones were unleashed in a small park to test the efficiency of the concept. China had also tried a similar approach in the past with good results. In several other places in Bangkok, people were found trying to battle pollution head-on. They sprayed water cannons in the air from trucks in traffic infested areas. Faced with public discontent as well as a possible health crisis, the governor declared the city a “pollution control zone”. Thus, allowing firm measures such as road closures and limits on diesel vehicles, outdoor burning, and construction activities.
The governor, Police General Asawin Kwanmuang thinks that drones are not a long term solution but every little bit of effort contributes to tackling the issue.
