Akrasankiri urges the government to tackle PM2.5 at its root cause, warning that simply arresting and fining farmers is only a short-term solution. He stresses that farmers do not want to burn fields but are burdened by high costs, especially soaring fuel prices, and calls on the government to increase funding for harvesting machinery and to expand collection points for agricultural waste.
On 31 Mar 2026 GMT+7, Mr. Akrasankiri Lohvira, MP for Chaiyaphum and spokesman for the Kla Tham Party, said the small particulate matter PM2.5 problem, which has again impacted public health across many areas, remains a closely watched issue. There is ongoing debate about its root causes, particularly agricultural burning, often seen as a key factor. However, solutions must look deeper into farmers' cost structures and constraints rather than rely solely on strict legal measures.
Akrasankiri stated that most farmers do not want to burn their agricultural land because they understand the environmental and health impacts on themselves and their communities. However, they are driven to this method by continuously rising costs, including increased harvesting fees, higher fertilizer prices, and persistently climbing fuel costs.
"Farmers today face multiple cost burdens. Alternative methods to handle agricultural residue, such as plowing it back into the soil or processing it, can generate extra income but are hindered by the high price of necessary tools and equipment, which many farmers cannot afford," said Akrasankiri.
He added that if the government genuinely wants to reduce burning, it must implement concrete support measures alongside law enforcement, rather than just arresting and fining farmers, which could worsen their hardships. He proposed that the government promptly consider providing agricultural machinery and equipment at affordable prices.
"Saying 'do not burn' is easy, but more importantly, the state must offer solutions. Without alternatives, farmers have no choice but to use the lowest-cost method," Akrasankiri concluded.