The Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives is intensifying efforts to combat wildfires and PM2.5 pollution in the northern region, combining immediate response measures with longer-term changes in farming practices.

Agriculture and Cooperatives Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit said authorities have conducted more than 400 royal rainmaking flights to increase atmospheric moisture and reduce particulate matter levels. Additional steps include expanding small-scale water sources and distribution systems across more than 1,000 sites in over 500 communities, while promoting the conversion of agricultural waste into organic fertilizer and biochar to reduce open burning.

Officials are also advancing structural changes in agriculture, encouraging farmers to shift away from burn-based practices toward higher-value crops such as greenhouse vegetables, coffee, and temperate fruits. These products are being developed under PM2.5-free standards to improve market access and provide more stable income. Data tools, including plot-level systems and hotspot analysis, are being used alongside community efforts to prevent fires and protect watershed forests.

Authorities have reiterated a strict ban on agricultural burning, warning that violations could lead to legal action and suspension from government support programs. During the visit, Suriya and Deputy Minister Piyarat Tiyapairat also joined field inspections of wildfire control methods and aerial technology used for monitoring and firefighting, while meeting frontline personnel involved in the operations.