VIENTIANE, March 27 (Xinhua) -- Air pollution in Laos has sparked growing public concern as air quality worsens, with persistent haze lingering for days and alarming PM 2.5 particle levels rising nationwide.

Laos is facing significant air pollution during the dry season, with air quality fluctuating between 117 and 269 on the air quality index (AQI). The highest PM 2.5 concentration reached 218 micrograms per cubic meter, exceeding the safety threshold of 50 micrograms per cubic meter, according to the Lao Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment on Thursday.

Sinhxay, a 20-year-old student, emphasized the need for people from all walks of life to better understand air pollution, urging them to be aware of its dangers and take precautions against the harmful effects of smog.

"We need to talk more about this and take the problem more seriously! I think PM 2.5 is like a silent killer. It doesn't affect us immediately, but when we breathe it in every day, it can accumulate in our bodies and eventually harm us when our health is weakened," Sinhxay told Xinhua on Wednesday.

"I understand that the worsening air pollution in Laos is largely due to the widespread practice of slash-and-burn agriculture to clear land for farming. However, it would be better if we could find alternative farming methods that benefit farmers and are safe for the environment," he added.

Laos' Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment issued a notice on Wednesday, highlighting that Laos is experiencing air pollution during the dry season due to forest fires, agricultural burning, and garbage burning.

Additionally, satellite data showed fire hotspots spreading across the region, resulting in persistent haze over several days.

The ministry urged residents to take preventive measures, including avoiding outdoor activities, wearing masks when going outside, drinking plenty of water, and refraining from burning garbage or waste to reduce air pollution.

The air pollution has had far-reaching effects on daily life in Laos, especially for vulnerable groups, and has also impacted some businesses.

Khaikham, a gift shop owner at a night market in Lao capital Vientiane, said, "With this thick smog, people barely go outside or spend less time wandering around, which is really affecting small shops in street markets like mine."

"In addition to fewer opportunities to sell, I'm also facing serious health risks from staying outdoors for long hours. As a result, I'm considering temporarily closing my shop and selling online until the air quality improves," Khaikham added.

Bounphanh, a street food vendor, said "The thick smog has reduced visibility, and we can't even see far ahead. I've noticed that sales have dropped because fewer people are coming out to shop, as everyone is concerned about the long-term effects on their health. It's hard to keep operating like this."

The Lao government is seeking to tighten controls on air pollution, including smog and forest fires, by taking environmental issues seriously and continuing efforts to improve air quality.

PM 2.5 is an air pollutant containing tiny particles with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometers. It can lodge in lungs and enter blood vessels, leading to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Enditem

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