Anutin urgently ordered Suchart and the Interior Permanent Secretary to tighten control over forest fires in the North. He emphasized ongoing discussions with neighboring countries about cross-border smoke and stated that addressing issues within our own country is most important. He urged all provincial governors to take decisive action against illegal burning.
On 31 March 2026, Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, spoke about the dust and smoke problem in the northern region. He said he has instructed Suchart Chomklin, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, along with the Interior Permanent Secretary, to supervise 3-4 northern provinces with strict enforcement regarding burning.
When asked whether talks with neighboring countries are necessary due to cross-border smoke, Anutin said that smoke does drift across borders, so discussions and cooperation are needed to manage what can be controlled. If we can control the situation within our country, it will help reduce severity. He stressed that cases must be prosecuted firmly as last year. He added he does not want to be accused of harassment or causing trouble by enforcing laws fully. Currently, all provincial governors have received clear orders to act decisively, which also serves as a measure of their effectiveness.