CHIANG RAI– The province of Chiang Rai in northern Thailand is facing a serious wildfire situation after flames broke out and spread across Doi Pha Ngom in Pa Ngio subdistrict, Wiang Pa Pao district, late in the night.
The mountain is home to a sacred pagoda and the Tusita Pha Ngom monk residence, which raised concern as the fire moved closer to the religious site.
After the report came in, the wildfire control center quickly sent in firefighting teams from the Department of National Parks, local administrative officers, and village volunteers. Because the area is steep and heavily forested, crews had to enter on foot.
They worked through the night to cut firebreaks and spray water to stop the flames from reaching the temple grounds.
Later, the Wiang Pa Pao district chief went to the scene to direct operations. At the same time, officials used drones to survey the mountain from above and watch for any new flare-ups. Although the situation has improved, officers are still monitoring the area around the clock.
According to the Chiang Rai Provincial Office of Natural Resources and Environment, 65 hotspots have been found across the province.
Wiang Pa Pao remains one of the hardest-hit areas, with an accumulated total of 95 hotspots. As a result, PM2.5 pollution in Mueang Chiang Rai, Mae Sai, and Chiang Khong has climbed into the dark red zone, a level that can seriously affect health.
Governor Choochip Pongchai said strict control measures are now in place. First, all open burning is banned from now until May 10, 2026, and anyone who breaks the order will face the toughest legal action allowed.
In addition, if conditions do not improve, the province may temporarily close forest areas. Also, starting March 30, military forces from ISOC will join forest officers to patrol high-risk zones, with Wiang Pa Pao set as the priority.
Meanwhile, the province is preparing to coordinate with agricultural agencies to request artificial rain if humidity levels are high enough to support the operation and help reduce smoke.
The governor also thanked all officers and volunteers for their hard work and sacrifice. Their efforts, he said, are helping protect Chiang Rai’s forests and the health of local people.
