"Theng Natthapong" joined the Songkran festival in Chiang Mai and Lamphun, performing traditional Buddha water blessings and paying respects to the elderly. He revealed that most residents reported severe impacts from PM 2.5 pollution, with tourism bookings disappearing. The People’s Party plans to push the related bill into parliament.
On 13 April 2026, Mr. Natthapong Ruangpanyawut, leader of the People’s Party, together with Mr. Kittichai Techakulwanich, deputy leader, and Mr. Karunphon Thiansuwan, deputy spokesperson, participated in Songkran celebrations and met locals in Chiang Mai and Lamphun provinces. In the morning, they took part in the traditional water blessing of the Setankhamani, the White Jade Buddha, at Chiang Man Palace in Mueang Chiang Mai district. They then joined the elders’ water pouring ceremony at Muang Kai Temple, also in Mueang Chiang Mai, before traveling to Lamphun to attend the opening procession of Buddha statue water blessings and the Songkran festival there.
During the activities, Natthapong and his team spoke with residents in both areas, who reflected on problems caused by forest fires and PM 2.5 dust pollution in northern Thailand. Natthapong noted that from these severe air pollution and forest fire crises, many tourists have postponed their travel plans, significantly impacting the tourism sector.
The People’s Party is committed to addressing all issues affecting Chiang Mai residents, especially the Clean Air Act. The party has previously urged the government to expedite the passage of this legislation. However, it depends on whether the cabinet will take up the bill for further consideration. The latest indication suggests the cabinet might not forward the bill to the parliament for review.
Natthapong added that if this is the case, the People’s Party is ready to submit the bill directly to the parliament for reconsideration. The party aims to be the voice of all citizens and wishes everyone hope, strength, and happiness during the Songkran festival.